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HR with Heart: Supporting Breast Cancer Awareness in the Workplace

By Purciarele Group




October is a month of powerful awareness campaigns — and at Purciarele Group, we believe in showing up for all of them.
Last week, we stood in solidarity with survivors and advocates during Domestic Violence Awareness Week.
This week, we’re turning our attention to another deeply personal cause: Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

This isn’t just about wearing pink (though we love a good theme day 💕).
It’s about creating workplaces that support, educate, and empower — because health and wellbeing start where we work.

💗 Why Breast Cancer Awareness Matters at Work

Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in the U.S. during their lifetime. That means it’s not a distant issue — it’s personal. It’s your coworker, your client, your friend, your family member. It might even be you.

And while early detection saves lives, many people delay screenings due to fear, lack of access, or simply not knowing what to look for. That’s where employers — and HR leaders — can make a powerful difference.

👔 Yes, Men Get Breast Cancer Too

While breast cancer is often viewed as a women’s health issue, men can and do get breast cancer. In fact, about 1 in every 100 breast cancer diagnoses in the U.S. occurs in men. That may sound rare, but awareness matters — because silence can be deadly.

Why it’s important to include men in awareness efforts:

  • Delayed diagnosis: Men often overlook symptoms or assume they’re unrelated.

  • Stigma: Because it’s viewed as a “women’s disease,” men may feel embarrassed or alone.

  • Workplace inclusion: HR should ensure that awareness campaigns, benefits, and communications are inclusive of all genders.

Warning signs men (and women) should know:

  • A lump or swelling in the breast

  • Skin dimpling or puckering

  • Nipple retraction or discharge

  • Redness, scaling, or irritation on the nipple or surrounding skin

Inclusivity starts with awareness — and acknowledging that breast cancer doesn’t discriminate is a powerful place to begin.

🧠 HR’s Role in Awareness and Action

As HR professionals, we’re not just here to manage policies and payroll — we’re here to build cultures of care.
Here are ways to make Breast Cancer Awareness Month meaningful in your workplace:

1️⃣ Promote Preventive Care

  • Share educational resources on mammograms, self-exams, and early detection.

  • Offer flexible time off for screenings.

  • Partner with local clinics or mobile mammogram providers for on-site visits.

2️⃣ Create a Culture of Support

  • Host a “Wear Pink” day, wellness walk, or educational lunch-and-learn.

  • Invite a survivor or healthcare expert to share insights.

  • Offer mental health support for employees navigating a diagnosis — their own or a loved one’s.

3️⃣ Review Benefits and Resources

  • Ensure your health plan covers screenings and treatment.

  • Fill gaps in coverage when possible.

  • Consider supplemental insurance or EAPs with cancer support services.

4️⃣ Honor the Stories

  • Create a safe space (virtual or physical) where employees can share experiences or tributes.

  • Recognize survivors, caregivers, and families with compassion and respect.

🌸 The Intersection of Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence

Domestic violence and breast cancer may seem like separate issues — but they’re often connected.
Studies show that women in abusive relationships are less likely to seek preventive care, including cancer screenings.
Fear, control, and lack of access create barriers to health and safety.

This is why holistic HR matters. When we create safe, inclusive workplaces, we help people care for their whole selves — physically, emotionally, and mentally.

📣 Lead with Empathy

At Purciarele Group, we believe HR should always be human.
That means showing up for our teams not just during performance reviews, but during life’s hardest and most vulnerable moments.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is our reminder to:

  • Lead with empathy.

  • Educate with purpose.

  • Support with heart.

So yes — wear pink, share resources, start conversations.
Because when we care for our people, we build stronger workplaces… and stronger communities.

Need help building a workplace wellness or awareness strategy?
Reach out to Purciarele Group — where We love HR so you don’t have to™.

📞 904-840-9074

www.Purciarelegroup.com

info@purciarelegroup.com


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