October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to education, early detection, and support for those affected by breast cancer. Here in Naknek and across the Bristol Bay region, it’s more than just a symbolic observance; it’s an opportunity for the community to come together and discuss breast health openly, reduce stigma, and promote access to life-saving care.
At Cama’i Community Health Center, our mission is to support breast cancer awareness, save lives through prevention and early detection, and engage our rural communities in a proactive fight against this disease. For many in South Naknek, King Salmon, and surrounding villages, this month is a reminder that health is not just individual, it’s collective. Breast health is community health.
Don’t wait—early detection saves lives, and Camai is here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today.
Why Breast Cancer Awareness Matters in Rural Alaska
Breast cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women in the United States. While advancements in screening and treatment have led to better outcomes, rural communities often face additional barriers that make prevention and early detection more difficult.
In Bristol Bay, many residents live far from specialty providers. Getting to a mammogram appointment can mean missing work, arranging childcare, or traveling long distances. In winter, weather conditions can delay or cancel trips. For those without insurance or reliable transportation, scheduling even a basic check-up can feel overwhelming. Add in cultural stigma, lack of information, or fear—and it’s no wonder some people delay care.
But breast cancer doesn’t wait. That’s why raising awareness and making screening accessible is so critical. The earlier cancer is detected, the more effective treatment can be, and the better the chances of survival.
At Camai, we work hard to break down these barriers with localized education, referrals, and access to low-cost or free screening options. Our team is committed to helping women and families in our region understand their risks, recognize symptoms, and feel empowered to take action—no matter where they live.
Know the Signs and Symptoms
One of the most important ways to catch breast cancer early is to understand the symptoms and listen to your body. Many breast cancer diagnoses begin with self-awareness.
Watch for:
- A lump or thickened tissue in the breast or underarm
- Swelling or changes in size or shape of the breast
- Dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin
- Pain in the breast or nipple that doesn’t go away
- Discharge (other than breast milk), especially if it’s bloody
- Nipple changes, such as inversion or scaling
It’s important to remember that these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions. Still, they should always be checked by a provider. Early-stage breast cancer often has no symptoms at all, which is why regular mammograms are so essential.
Understanding Mammograms and Screening Guidelines
A mammogram is a specialized X-ray that allows healthcare professionals to detect tumors or abnormalities in breast tissue before they can be felt. It’s fast, safe, and one of the best tools we have for catching breast cancer early.
When should you start screening?
- Women aged 40 and older should begin annual or biennial mammograms, depending on their health history and provider recommendation.
- Women with a family history of breast cancer or genetic risk factors may need to start earlier.
- Talk with your Cama’i provider about your individual risk and screening schedule.
At Cama’i Community Health Center, we help with:
- Referrals to imaging providers
- Transportation coordination for appointments
- Assistance with financial aid programs for those without coverage
- Follow-up care if additional testing or support is needed
Our staff will walk you through the process step by step—you’re never navigating it alone.
Removing Financial Barriers
Worried about cost? You’re not alone. Many people delay or skip preventive care because they assume it will be expensive. But there are programs available to reduce or eliminate costs for eligible patients.
Cama’i can help connect you with:
- State-funded breast and cervical cancer screening programs
- Sliding fee scale payment options
- Community health grants
- Medicaid enrollment support
- Insurance navigation assistance
We believe cost should never be a barrier to care, and we’re committed to helping you get screened affordably.
Breast Health Beyond October
While October helps shine a light on this issue, breast health is something to prioritize year-round. Here are some simple ways to stay proactive:
- Perform monthly self-exams—knowing what’s normal for your body helps you recognize when something changes
- Stay current on your regular check-ups, including annual wellness visits
- Share your family history with your provider—it could affect your screening schedule
- Eat a balanced diet, move your body regularly, and avoid smoking—these small habits reduce risk
- Talk openly with others—sharing what you know could encourage someone else to seek care
And don’t forget the power of education at home. Teaching your daughters, sisters, and nieces the importance of regular screening can ripple out across generations.
Camai’s Commitment to Women’s Health
At Cama’i Community Health Center, we believe every woman deserves respectful, accessible, and high-quality care—no matter her age, background, or financial status.
We offer:
- Primary care focused on prevention and whole-person wellness
- Breast health education, including risk assessments and clinical breast exams
- Referrals for mammograms, specialist consultations, and diagnostic testing
- Behavioral health support for those navigating diagnosis, treatment, or survivorship
- Care coordination, follow-up calls, and help understanding next steps
- Community health workers and volunteers who help with education and outreach
- Culturally sensitive care that respects Native traditions and diverse perspectives
We know that navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially after a possible diagnosis. Our dedicated team is here to support you through every step—from your first screening to follow-up, treatment planning, and survivorship support.
What You Can Do
Not sure where to start? Here are a few simple actions that make a difference:
- Schedule your screening or remind a loved one to do so
- Attend a local awareness event
- Wear pink and share facts about breast cancer on social media
- Volunteer with a women’s health initiative or donate to a screening fund
- Talk to your daughters, sisters, friends, or coworkers about the importance of early detection
The more we talk, the more lives we can save.
Let’s Work Together to Raise Awareness
Breast cancer is beatable—if it’s caught early. Awareness, education, and access to care are our most effective tools. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and throughout the year, let’s commit to:
- Checking in on ourselves
- Supporting each other
- Spreading trusted information
- Making screenings part of our routine
Together, we can build a stronger, healthier future for women and families across Naknek and the entire Bristol Bay region.
Take charge of your health—schedule your breast exam or mammogram referral with Camai today.
