September 30, 2020 -- In honor of their 20th anniversary, the Keep A Breast Foundation, is launching a new app, the Keep A Breast app. Jumping off the success of their first breast self-check app, that has been downloaded all over the world, Keep A Breast is expanding the app experience and features to further serve their global audience by offering the vital connection to medical experts. Launching in both English and French, with additional languages on the way.
Expanding the self-check experience, the new Keep A Breast app focuses on information, support, and most importantly, access. For the first time, a breast self-check app now connects users who think they may have discovered something during their check with a medical professional via Keep A Breast’s partnership with Carbon Health, a technology-enabled healthcare provider making care accessible through inviting clinics and a robust virtual offering. This means users will have direct, instantaneous support from a healthcare professional in the case where they may have found an abnormality.
“At Keep A Breast, we want young people to understand and be educated that breast cancer under 40 is a reality,” says Shaney jo Darden, Founder of Keep A Breast. “It can happen to anyone, not just your mom or grandmother. It’s so important to know what is ‘normal’ for you and your body, and checking yourself is the first way to becoming your own health advocate.”
“We are excited to partner with Keep A Breast to raise awareness for breast cancer and the importance of self-checks for all generations,” says Dr. Sujal Mandavia, Chief Medical Officer of Carbon Health. “Increasing access to healthcare is critical. Our providers look forward to offering seamless care and chatting through any concerns with those who need it, so no one is left to wonder and worry.”
Other new features include stories from breast cancer survivors, additional breast health resources and information, rewards, and improved scheduling. The app was conceptualized by the KAB team with the help of Verynice design agency, artist Tina Tictone is responsible for the aesthetic design, and it was developed by All Kinds of Success digital agency. The app is made possible by Thrive Causemetics. The Keep A Breast app is available for free download through the Apple Store and Google Play.
While an important breast health tool for everyone, the app was designed specifically with young people in mind as they are so often left out of the breast cancer conversation. With the app - as with their entire platform - Keep A Breast hopes to inspire young people to build a positive relationship with their body, in order to live a healthy and preventative lifestyle.
The Importance of Monthly Breast Self-Checks
The team at Keep A Breast is a proud advocate of the self-check, as they so commonly come in contact with young women who have found their own lumps (both benign and malignant) “by accident.” With 40% of diagnosed breast cancers being self-detected (according to the John Hopkins Medical Center), establishing what is "normal" for you is an important step to knowing your body.
“The breast self-check is the simplest and easiest way to protect your breasts. Knowing your ‘normal’ is the only way to know if something needs further evaluation, which is the most important part of early detection,” says Dr. Joel Evans, MD, Keep A Breast’s Medical Director.
Over 300,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in the US each year. Approximately 12,000 of those diagnosed are under the age of 40. When breast cancer is detected early (in the localized stage) the 5-year survival rate is 98% (National Cancer Institute). The Keep A Breast Foundation believes that through a monthly routine of self-checks more people are likely to detect changes in their bodies quickly, will seek medical advice, and potentially detect cancer early. Knowledge is Power.
The Keep A Breast app is available for free download on both the App Store and Google Play! Learn more.
About Keep A Breast
The Keep A Breast Foundation™ is a nonprofit organization with a mission to empower young people around the world with breast health education and support.
2020 marks Keep A Breast’s 20th Anniversary! Since its inception in 2000, KAB has worked with young people to remove the shame associated with breasts and breast health. Through various initiatives and programs such as breast cast art exhibitions, “Non Toxic Revolution”, “Check Yourself! App” and "i love boobies!" campaign, KAB has opened up the dialog about breast cancer, and has proven to be a doorway to breast self-awareness and education.
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