COLUMN: Don't just wear pink; Live pink

Hi friends! I'm Jamie Jo Lowder, and I'm thrilled to be your local guide to living your healthiest, happiest life right here in Owen County. From food to family, finances to fitness, I'm all about giving you tips that actually stick—and yes, sometimes that means sprinkling a little pink into your day!

This October, we're turning our attention to Breast Cancer Awareness Month: learning the facts, taking action and having a little fun while we do it. Because staying healthy shouldn't be boring—it should be empowering, down-to-earth and totally doable. Let's dive in!

So, let's talk breast cancer, Indiana style, with a little Extension know-how, a sprinkle of Hoosier humor and some practical steps we can actually take right here in Owen County.

The Reality Check

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Indiana. Each year, about 5,460 Hoosier women are diagnosed, and sadly, about 910 die from it, according to the Indiana Department of Health.

But here's the hope: when breast cancer is found early, the five-year survival rate is an incredible 99 percent. That's about as good a reason as any to stay on top of screenings.

In Owen County, IU Health's Community Health Needs Assessment tells us cancer rates—including breast cancer—are higher than the state average. That means the choices we make here can make a big difference.

So, What Can You Actually Do?

Here's the cheat-sheet version—straight from Purdue Extension, Indiana health experts, and your friendly neighborhood educator voice:

Schedule that mammogram. Women ages 50 to 74 should have one every two years. If you have a family history, talk to your doctor—sometimes starting earlier is best.

Know your "normal." Self-checks aren't perfect, but being familiar with your body helps you notice changes. Think of it like doing a "monthly quality control check."

Move more, sit less. Walk the dog, rake leaves, dance in the kitchen—physical activity lowers your risk. No treadmill required.

Eat smart. Pile your plate with fruits, veggies and whole grains. (The local farmers' market can basically be a breast-health buffet!)

Cut back on alcohol. Even just a little less can lower risk. Swap that extra glass of wine for sparkling water with a splash of juice—you'll still feel fancy.

Support each other. Text a friend: "Got your mammogram scheduled yet?" Make it a buddy outing and reward yourselves with coffee after. Sometimes accountability is what gets it done.

Why This Matters for Owen County

Picture this: if every woman in Owen County who was due for a mammogram actually went, our local screening rate would jump—and survival rates would follow. We don't have to just match the Indiana average (about 72 percent of women screened every two years)—we can beat it.

And when we beat it, it means more birthdays, more grandkids' ballgames and more Sunday dinners. That's the real win.

Wrapping It in a Pink Bow

So, here's the takeaway, friends:

Breast cancer is serious—but beatable when caught early. Indiana has too many women not getting screened, and Owen County can change that story. A few lifestyle tweaks—more movement, smarter eating, less alcohol—lower your risk in real ways. And the best prevention tool is still community: looking out for one another.

This October, don't just wear pink. Live pink. Schedule pink. Support pink.

Because awareness is just the start—action is where lives are saved.

Want to learn more about more exciting programs? Call the Purdue Extension–Owen County office at 812-829-5020. Looking to bring a program to your group? From food and health to family and finance, I've got you covered! Shoot me an email at lowder0@purdue.edu and let's make it happen.

And don't forget — you can always spot my upcoming programs in the Community Calendar section of this newspaper, Facebook page or our website extension.purdue.edu/county/owen/hhshome.html.