September is a time for cooler weather and fall activities, but it also allows us to become aware of the many diseases that affect the people around us. September brings awareness to Alzheimer’s, Prostate and Ovarian Cancer, Sickle Cell Disease and others that deserve acknowledgment and recognition.
Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that progresses in severity as time goes on. According to the Mayo Clinic, “about 6.5 million people in the United States age 65 and older live with Alzheimer’s disease. More than 70% are 75 years old and older.” There is no known cure, but there is a medicine that may slow the progress of the disease.
On October 7th, the Alzheimer Association will host their 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer’s at the Walt Disney Amphitheatre at Lake Eola. The donations will go towards furthering “the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association,” according to their website.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer occurs when cancer cells appear in the prostate, a gland only found in males. According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men other than skin cancer. Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery are the most common treatments for prostate cancer.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation’s website has a page with resources to help spread awareness within the community. Some ways include signing up for a local 5k or 10k, setting up a fundraising page, or donating $25 to receive 10 light blue awareness pins – the signature color of prostate cancer awareness.
Ovarian Cancer
According to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, ovarian cancer can include cancers that start in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the peritoneum. According to the National Cancer Institution, ovarian cancer is rare, accounting for 1% of new cancer cases in 2023.
On October 1st, the NOCC is holding Together in TEAL a walk to fund research, promote early awareness and resources, and expand community outreach. The walk will take place at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs.
Sickle Cell
Sickle cell disease is an inherited condition that affects the red blood cells in the body. The cells contain hemoglobin S, which causes some red blood cells to become crescent-shaped. According to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America’s website, there are many different types of sickle cell disease, the most common being Hemoglobin SS and Hemoglobin SC Disease, Sickle Beta-Plus Thalassemia, and Sickle Beta-Zero Thalassemia.
On the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website, there are many different ways to raise awareness in your own way by reading articles, learning about the clinical trials and therapy, or browsing their social media resources.