October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when people around the world come together to highlight breast health and the importance of finding cancer early.

The pink ribbon rose to prominence in the early 1990s when Estée Lauder and SELF magazine distributed millions of them, turning it into a lasting symbol of the cause. The first nationwide campaign began in 1985, led by the American Cancer Society, to encourage women to get mammograms. Mammograms are X-rays that can reveal tumors in breast tissue before they can be felt. That push marked the start of a movement that opened conversations, increased funding for research, and made screening a regular part of preventive care.

Why Screening Matters

Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast grow out of control. Finding it early means treatment is usually easier and more effective. Screening makes a real difference:

Mammograms are X-rays that can catch changes before you can feel them.
Knowing your normal matters. Report new lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge.
Risk factors include age, family history, certain inherited genes, alcohol use, weight, and hormone exposure.

Since 1989, breast cancer death rates in the United States have dropped by more than 40 percent, thanks largely to earlier detection and better treatments.

Where Cannabis Fits

Cannabis is not a cure for breast cancer. Leading cancer groups stress that cannabis should never replace proven treatments. Many patients, however, do use cannabis for symptom relief. Anecdotal benefits include:

A recent survey found that almost half of people with breast cancer reported using cannabis during care.

If you are curious about cannabis, start by talking with your oncology team. They understand your treatment plan and can advise on possible drug interactions. Budtenders can then help you choose cannabis products that fit your doctor’s guidance, explain how to use them safely, and share what other patients have found helpful for managing symptoms.

The Science on CBD and Cancer

CBD is a compound from the cannabis plant that does not cause a “high.” Researchers are studying how it might affect cancer cells. Most of the research is preclinical (lab and animal studies), not yet in people.

What these studies suggest:

Slowing growth: CBD may pause the cell cycle, which is like hitting pause on cell division.
Self-destruct signals: CBD may trigger apoptosis, a cell’s natural “self-destruct” program.
Less spread: CBD may reduce invasion and metastasis in aggressive breast cancer models, partly by lowering Id-1, a protein that promotes tumor growth.

Bottom line: CBD shows promise in labs, but human trials are limited. For now, cannabis should be seen as a supportive option for symptoms, not a cure.

Practical Takeaways

The most important step you can take is to keep up with screening by asking your doctor when to start and how often to schedule mammograms.

Pay attention to any changes in your breasts and get them checked quickly if something feels different.

If you decide to use cannabis, let your oncology team know so they can look for possible interactions with your treatment. From there, budtenders can help guide you toward appropriate products and explain safe ways to use them.

Remember to start low, go slow, and focus on relief from symptoms rather than viewing cannabis as a cure. Stay curious about emerging research, but lean on proven treatments and early detection as the tools that save lives.

Disclaimer: The information presented here is meant for educational purposes only. Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising. Consult a physician on the benefits and risks of specific medical products.