MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — October’s pink ribbons carry a message of hope, recognizing breast cancer survivors, supporting those undergoing treatment and encouraging conversations about breast health.

For Mitchell and Davison County residents, “think pink” can also mean taking a practical step: scheduling a screening, discussing family history with a health care provider or helping a friend get to an appointment.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mammograms can help find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammograms every two years for women ages 40 through 74 at average risk. People at higher risk may need a different screening plan. Screening detects cancer; it does not prevent it.

Healthy habits can help lower breast cancer risk. The CDC recommends physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and drinking less alcohol or avoiding it. These steps reduce risk but cannot eliminate it.

Cost assistance is available. South Dakota’s All Women Count! program provides breast and cervical cancer screening services at no cost to eligible women through participating providers. Residents can review eligibility and find providers online.

Support can be simple and personal: delivering a meal, offering a ride, helping with chores or listening without expecting someone to stay upbeat.

As Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues, pink ribbons offer an opening for meaningful action — caring for personal health and showing neighbors they have support.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month messages have been airing on all four of the Mitchell Media Groups radio stations (KMIT 105.9, Kool 98.3, Pure Oldies 103.5 and More 95.5) all October and have been brought to you by these supportive businesses.

CarQuest, Mitchell Concrete, Agtegra, The Depot, American Garage Door, Central Farmers Cooperative, Community Bank of Avon, Thunes True Value Hardware and Appliance Center, Krulls Market, Miedema Sanitation, Mitchell Technical College, Douglas County Memorial Hospital, JD Concrete, Agland Coop, and Mitchell Media Group