When it comes to our health, access is everything. For women and genderqueer people, accessing the proper care and support is more critical now than ever before. But with increasing barriers, bodily autonomy is being challenged. The overturn of Roe v. Wade has significantly impacted women's access to crucial healthcare, leading to increased restrictions on reproductive rights and creating barriers to essential services like wellness exams and breast health resources.

At Keep A Breast, we believe that no one else besides ourselves should have a say in what we do with our bodies, and being our own health advocates is crucial to the prevention of late-stage breast cancer and other health concerns. It all starts with access!

Access to healthcare entails having the means, resources, and freedom to get the medical attention you need when you need it. 

Unfortunately, many people face significant hurdles including:

• Financial Barriers: High costs can make essential health services unaffordable.

• Geographical Barriers: Living in remote areas often means fewer health facilities.

• Social Barriers: Cultural norms and stigma can prevent people from seeking help.

Access isn't just about availability; it's about ensuring that all people can get the care they need. Healthcare is a human right.

One of the fundamental values of Keep A Breast is providing education. Without it, we don’t know how to advocate for ourselves and those around us. When education is cut off in school systems and governments, it’s crucial that it’s accessible somewhere credible and trustworthy. 

That’s why we built our self-check app and are working to expand the features and resources available through the free, globally available Keep A Breast App to equip you better to “know your normal” regarding your breast/chest health.

Our bodies are our own. We know them best, and we know what we need. No one else should dictate what we can or cannot do with them. This right is under threat as women's health access becomes increasingly politicized. Whether it's access to birth control, abortion services, or breast healthcare, women’s autonomy is being taken away. It impacts us all.

Gender Equality in Health: My Chest, My Choice

Healthcare isn't one-size-fits-all, and neither are the challenges faced by different genders. 

"My Chest, My Choice" is about creating a supportive community and a ripple effect of change. It’s a powerful reminder of the layers of impact that restrictive healthcare laws and limitations on reproductive rights have on all individuals. Just like 'I love boobies!' we’re igniting conversations and spreading education, and we need you with us so we can get the message out as far and as fast as possible. 

So, what can that look like for people who don’t identify as women?

For non-binary, genderqueer, and trans individuals, navigating the healthcare system, especially in areas traditionally categorized as 'women's health,' often involves additional challenges such as discrimination, lack of inclusive care, and the need for gender-affirming treatments that are frequently inaccessible. Misgendering and discrimination in healthcare settings further complicate access. And on the other end of the spectrum, the danger of increased lack of breast care access also impacts men. Men can also face breast cancer and need to advocate for their health without stigma.

Understanding these diverse perspectives helps create a more inclusive approach to health advocacy by acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges faced by different gender identities. 

The bottom line is that everyone's health needs must be met with sensitivity and respect, fostering an equitable and accessible healthcare system. Together, we can build a community that stands for education, empowerment, and change.

How to Be Your Own Health Advocate

• Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Learn about your health needs and rights. You can start with our Breast Cancer 101 resource!

• Download the Keep A Breast App: The Keep A Breast app focuses on information, support, and, most importantly, access. Learn how to check yourself, know your normal, and have direct, instantaneous, inclusive support through the app if you find something abnormal during your self-check.

• Speak Up for Yourself: If you think that your health needs aren't being met, don't be afraid to voice your concerns. Talk to your healthcare provider, seek second (or third!) opinions, and ask questions.

• Support Legislation: Get involved in supporting laws and policies that help improve access to healthcare. Contact your representatives and let them know where you stand.

• Raise Awareness: Use social media and other platforms to share your experiences and educate others. The more people understand the importance of access, the stronger our collective voice becomes. You can download graphics and access social media captions to share here! Search “My Chest My Choice” on IG stories and FB to use GIFs from the campaign and tag us @keepabreast!

Join OUR movement TO spark conversation around healthcare access

Check out our exclusive My Chest My Choice collection. 100% of your purchase goes directly to improving breast health education access worldwide through Keep A Breast’s Check Yourself Program.

Access to healthcare is a fundamental right that should never be compromised. At KAB, we empower everyone to take control of their health and advocate for their rights. By understanding the challenges, acknowledging diverse gender perspectives, and actively advocating for ourselves, we can ensure everyone receives the access they deserve.

Keep fighting, stay informed, and believe in your right to make choices about your own body.

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