Project Hope 2023

Thank you for participating in project HOPE, a community wellness event designed by the Bismarck Cancer Center to educate you about healthy lifestyles, cancer prevention and early detection. Included are stickers for each type of cancer that can be worn on the respective cancer awareness days.

Not only does project HOPE provide you with educational tools, it empowers you to give hope to local cancer patients and their families affected by the disease. Cancer is a national epidemic that affects your place of employment and the U.S. economy. A little over 1.9 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in the US in 2023. Take the first step to a healthier you by reading the information provided.

Participation is flexible at your workplace, but we encourage participants to donate $10 for project HOPE week which will go to the Bismarck Cancer Center Foundation, whose goal is to provide hope, help and healing for individuals battling cancer. The Foundation was established in 2007 to provide financial support, as well as assistance with transportation, lodging, emotional and spiritual care, nutritional care, survivorship care, art therapy, massage, physical therapy, and more.

LIGHT BLUE

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Breast Cancer is a malignant (cancerous) tumor that starts from breast cells. It is mostly found in women, but men can also get breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in females in North Dakota, with over 600 diagnosed yearly.

SYMPTOMS:

• Swelling in all or part of a breast (even if no lump is felt)

• Skin dimpling (sometimes looking like an orange peel)

• Breast or nipple pain

• Nipple retraction (turning inward)

• Nipple or breast skin that is red, dry, flaking, or thickened

• Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)

• Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone

SCREENING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WOMEN:

• The American Cancer society recommends that women at average risk of developing breast cancer undergo annual mammography beginning at age 45.

REDUCE YOUR RISK:

Get to and stay at a healthy weight: Both increased body weight and weight gain as an adult are linked with a higher risk of breast cancer after menopause. The American Cancer Society recommends you stay healthy throughout your life and avoid excess weight gain by balancing your food intake with physical activity.

BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE:

Many studies have shown that moderate to vigorous physical activity is linked with lower breast cancer risk, so it’s essential to get regular physical activity. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults get at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderateintensity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week.

AVOID OR LIMIT ALCOHOL:

Alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer. Even drinking small amounts of alcohol has been linked with increased risk. It is best not to drink alcohol at all. Women who drink should have no more than one alcoholic drink a day.

HOW TO PERFORM A ROUTINE BREAST SELF-EXAM

Look at your breasts in a mirror with arms by your sides and then with your arms raised. You should be looking for any skin changes such as dimpling, puckering, redness, changes in your nipple or anything coming out them (and you’re not breast feeding.)

Feel your breasts while lying down. Using the opposite hand to examine each breast with two fingertip pads, using small circular motions and covering the entire area of the breast (from outer arm pits to the nipples, across to the space in between your breasts, and vertically from your collarbone to below the breasts).

Feel your breasts while standing up. This is easiest done in the shower especially with a little soap over the area which makes fingers slide over the tissue and lumps easier to feel.

BREAST CANCER STATISTICS

• 300,590 new cases in the US in 2023

• 610 cases diagnosed in ND

BLUE

Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer among men (after skin cancer), but it can often be treated successfully. Many prostate cancers grow slowly and are confined to the prostate gland, where they may not cause serious harm. However, while some types of prostate cancer grow slowly and may need minimal or no treatment, others are aggressive and spread quickly.

SYMPTOMS:

Different people have different symptoms of prostate cancer. Some men do not have symptoms at all. Remember that these symptoms may be caused by conditions other than prostate cancer.

• Difficulty starting urination

• Difficulty emptying bladder

• Need to urinate frequently

• Weak or interrupted flow of urine

• Painful or burning urination

• Painful or difficulty with erection and ejaculation

• Blood in urine or semen

• Frequent pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs

SCREENING RECOMMENDATIONS:

The American Cancer Society recommends that men have a chance to make an informed decision with their healthcare provider about whether to be screened for prostate cancer. The discussion about screening should take place at:

• Age 50 for men who are at average risk of prostate cancer and are expected to live at least ten or more years

• Age 45 for men at high risk of developing prostate cancer. This includes African Americans and men who have a first-degree relative (father or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age (younger than age 65).

• Age 40 for men at even higher risk (those with more than one first-degree relative who had prostate cancer at an early age).

After this discussion, men who want to be screened should get the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. The digital rectal exam (DRE) may also be done as part of screening.

PROSTATE CANCER STATISTICS

• 288,300 new cases in the US in 2023

• 740 cases diagnosed in ND

MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

Mental health is a critical aspect of overall wellbeing and just as important as physical health. Unfortunately, mental health issues are still stigmatized in many workplaces, which can create significant challenges for employees struggling with these issues.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

Mental health significantly impacts an individual’s productivity and overall well-being. When employees struggle with mental health issues, they are more likely to experience absenteeism, presenteeism, and reduced job performance. This can lead to increased stress, burnout, and turnover, which can ultimately have a negative impact on the overall wellbeing and culture of a company.

In addition to the economic impact, there is also a human cost to ignoring mental health issues in the workplace. Employees struggling with mental health issues may feel isolated, unsupported, and undervalued, which can lead to despair and hopelessness. This can have long-term consequences for both the individual and the organization, as employees who feel unsupported are more likely to leave their jobs and seek employment elsewhere.

CHALLENGES FACED BY EMPLOYEES

There are many challenges that employees may face when it comes to mental health in the workplace. One of the biggest challenges is the stigma associated with mental health issues. Employees may fear being judged or discriminated against if they disclose their mental health struggles, which can prevent them from seeking the support they need.

Another challenge is the pressure to perform at work. Many employees feel they need to put on a brave face and hide their struggles to maintain their professional image. This can be exhausting and can lead to burnout and increased stress.

Finally, employees may struggle to find the resources and support to manage their mental health issues. Many employers do not offer mental health services, and even when they do, employees may not know how to access them or may feel uncomfortable asking for help.

STRATEGIES FOR SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

Employers can take several steps to support their employees’ mental health. Some of these strategies include:

1. Creating a culture of openness and acceptance. Employers can help to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues by creating a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their mental health struggles without fear of judgment or discrimination.

2. Providing mental health resources and services. Employers can offer mental health services, such as counseling or therapy, and can provide resources, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs), to connect employees with the support they need.

3. Educating employees about mental health. Employers can provide education and training on mental health issues to help employees recognize common mental health conditions’ signs and symptoms and encourage them to seek help when needed.

4. Offering flexible work arrangements. Employers can offer flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or flexible

Melanoma is one of the most common cancers that can develop anywhere on your skin. It most often appears on areas of the skin that have had direct exposure to the sun for an extended period, such as your forearms, face, neck, and legs. However, melanomas can also develop in places that do not receive direct sun exposure, such as fingernail beds, soles of your feet, and the palms of your hands. The risk of skin cancer is growing in people under 40, especially teenagers and women.

SYMPTOMS:

Usually, the initial sign of melanoma is the development of a new mole or a change in an already existing mole’s appearance. Knowing the common symptoms of skin cancer can help ensure that cancerous changes are detected earlier and help get treatment before it spreads. To help you recognize the characteristics of unusual (precancerous and cancerous) moles that may indicate melanoma development, think of the letters ABCDE (asymmetry, border, color, diameter and evolving).

PREVENTION:

Most melanomas can be successfully treated if they are detected early. Here are some simple preventative measures that you can take to try and limit your risk of getting melanoma.

• Seek Shade – The sun’s UV rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. At this time of the day, limit your sun exposure or seek shade if you have to be outside.

• Apply Sunscreen – Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30, is water resistant, and is labeled “broad spectrum.” This means it covers both types of the sun’s dangerous rays, UVA & UVB rays. For the best protection, apply sunscreen generously every two hours, and don’t forget your ears, nose, lips, and the tops of your feet!

• Wear Protective Clothing – Grab your favorite wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a long sleeve shirt. Many companies even sell clothing with built-in ultraviolet protection.

SKIN CANCER STATISTICS

• 104,930 new cases in the US in 2023

• 290 cases diagnosed in ND

• Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the US

The five main types of gynecologic cancer are cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar. (A sixth type of gynecologic cancer is the very rare fallopian tube cancer.)

Each gynecologic cancer is unique, with different signs and symptoms, risk factors (things that may increase your chance of getting a disease), and different prevention strategies. All women are at risk for gynecologic cancers, and the risk increases with age.

SYMPTOMS:

Pay attention to your body and know what is normal for you so that you can recognize the warning signs or symptoms of gynecologic cancer. Symptoms may be caused by something other than cancer, but the only way to know is to see a doctor.

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge is common in all gynecologic cancers except vulvar cancer.

• Feeling full too quickly or having difficulty eating, bloating, and abdominal or back pain is common for ovarian cancer.

• Pelvic pain or pressure is common for ovarian and uterine cancers.

• More frequent or urgent urination needs and/ or constipation are common for ovarian and vaginal cancers.

• Itching, burning, pain, or tenderness of the vulva, and changes in vulva color or skin, such as a rash, sores, or warts, are found only in vulvar cancer.

You should also see a doctor if you have any other warning signs that last for two weeks or longer and are not normal.

SCREENING:

Of all the gynecologic cancers, only cervical cancer has screening tests that can find this cancer early, when treatment works best. The Pap test helps prevent cervical cancer by finding precancers and cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately. A test called the HPV test looks for HPV infection. It can be used for screening women age 30 years and older.

GYNECOLOGICAL CANCER STATISTICS

• 114,780 new cases in the US in 2023

• HPV vaccination protects against the types of HPV that cause 90% of cervical cancers, as well as several other cancers and diseases

Cancer can be a life-changing experience that affects not only the individual diagnosed but also their family and friends. Surviving cancer is an accomplishment that should be celebrated, but it can also bring unique challenges, especially when returning to work. Cancer survivors often face physical and emotional hurdles impacting their productivity, relationships with colleagues, and overall job satisfaction.

If your friend, colleague, partner, or family member has completed cancer treatment, you probably feel relieved that their treatment is over. Cancer is an emotional roller coaster that doesn’t stop just because treatment ends. This can be some of the most challenging times for those with cancer.

Many survivors feel different from before cancer and must adjust to a new normal where they aren’t visiting a doctor daily. They might be anxious about what’s next and whether cancer will return. In addition, they may continue to experience physical side effects from treatment or ongoing medication. You may be hoping and expecting things to return to normal for the cancer survivor, but it’s essential to understand everything they might feel.

HERE ARE SOME WAYS THAT EMPLOYERS AND COWORKERS CAN HELP SUPPORT CANCER SURVIVORS IN THE WORKPLACE:

FLEXIBILITY

Employers should consider offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible hours. Cancer survivors may need to attend

medical appointments, undergo treatment, or manage side effects that could make it difficult for them to work traditional hours. Being able to work from home or adjust their schedule can significantly affect their ability to manage their health and continue working.

SUPPORTIVE WORKPLACE CULTURE

Coworkers can help create a supportive work environment by being understanding, patient, and empathetic. A cancer diagnosis can be stressful and emotional, so colleagues should be mindful of their language and behavior around cancer survivors. Avoid making insensitive comments or jokes about cancer; instead, offer encouragement and support. Many cancer survivors may have an intense fear that cancer will return. While this is a scary topic to talk about, it might be helpful for them to communicate with others on how they would cope.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

Employers should provide reasonable accommodations to help cancer survivors perform their job duties. This could include installing equipment or software that accommodates their physical limitations, allowing them to take breaks as needed, or modifying their workload. Employers should communicate with employees to understand their specific needs and work together to find a solution that works for each unique individual.

ACCESS TO RESOURCES

Employers can provide cancer survivors with access to resources and support, such as an Employee

Assistance Program (EAP), counseling, or support groups. These resources can help cancer survivors manage the emotional and psychological impact of cancer, cope with the stress of returning to work, and find ways to balance their work and personal life.

CELEBRATE MILESTONES

Returning to work after cancer treatment can be a significant milestone, and it’s essential to celebrate it. Employers and colleagues should acknowledge the survivor’s accomplishment and show appreciation for their hard work and dedication. Celebrating milestones can help cancer survivors feel valued, recognized, and supported in the workplace.

BE THERE

One of the best things you can do is not ask people what can be done but instead show up and help. Cancer survivors may be so overwhelmed at any moment that they can’t think of where they need help.

In conclusion, cancer survivors often face unique challenges when returning to work, but with the right support, they can thrive in the workplace. Employers and colleagues can make a significant difference by offering flexibility, creating a supportive workplace culture, providing reasonable accommodations, offering access to resources, and celebrating milestones. By working together, we can help cancer survivors achieve success in their professional and personal lives.

CANCER SUPPORT GROUPS

Breast Cancer Support Group

Bismarck Cancer Center

5:30 p.m. ~ Second Thursday of each month

Contact Jen at 701-222-6113 for virtual options

Caregivers Cancer Support Group

Bismarck Cancer Center

5:30 p.m. ~ Third Tuesday of each month

Contact Jen at 701-222-6113 for more information

All Cancer Support Group

Bismarck Cancer Center

5:30 p.m. ~ Third Thursday of each month

Contact Jen at 701-222-6113 for virtual options

Head and Neck Support Group Bismarck Cancer Center

3 p.m. ~ Second Wednesday of each month

Contact Amanda at 701-222-6154 for virtual options

Equine Therapy

TR4 Heart and Soul

Contact Katie at oakland@live.com to schedule your session

Healing Art Workshop with Art from the Heart

Art from the Heart Studio

311 N Mandan St Ste 4, Bismarck

6-8 p.m. ~ First Tuesday of each month

Limited Seating Available

To register, please visit bismarckcancercenterfoundation.com

Yoga for Healing

Bismarck Cancer Center

4 p.m. ~ Every Monday

Virtual options available

Contact Allexis at 701-222-6179