OCEAN COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO RECOGNIZE PRETTY PINK, HANDSOME IN BLUE DAY ON OCTOBER 16, 2024
The Ocean County Health Department (OCHD) is pleased to announce the recognition of Pretty in Pink, Handsome in Blue Day on Wednesday, October 16, 2024. By wearing something Pink or Blue with your wardrobe for the day, you will honor and support individuals bravely battling breast cancer and other forms of cancer, while raising awareness of the importance of early detection, prevention, and the ongoing fight for a cure.
“Almost everyone has a loved one or friend whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer or by the many other types of this terrible disease,” said Gary Quinn, Ocean County Commissioner Deputy Director, and liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health. “For more than a decade, the Ocean County Health Department has encouraged community members, local businesses, schools, and organizations to take part in this day of recognition and action.”
“The Pretty in Pink. Handsome in Blue Day initiative seeks to foster greater understanding of the impact of all types of cancer and the need for continued education, research, and community support., explained OCHD Public Health Coordinator, Daniel Regenye. “’Wearing something pink or blue on October 16 is a simple yet powerful way to show the residents in our community that we stand with them and support them in their journey.”
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer in women in New Jersey while prostate cancer leads in men.
However, Regenye wants to remind people there is hope. “Advances in early detection and treatment methods have significantly increased breast cancer survival rates in recent years, and there are currently over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States,” he said.
“Some cancers can even be avoided, such as the 19% of cancers caused by smoking and at least 18% caused by a combination of excess body weight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, sun overexposure and cancer-related infections.”
Individuals should also remember to discuss with their health care provider the potential risk factors such as family cancer history and preventative vaccines.
The OCHD – in partnership with the NJ CEED Program – provides important cancer screening services, such as physical breast and cervical examinations, Pap smears, and colorectal cancer screening kits at no cost for uninsured or underinsured residents. To assess your eligibility or to schedule an appointment, please contact the OCHD Clinic Services Division at (732) 341-9700.
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