Key Facts
Here are some key points about breast cancer:
- One in eight women in the US will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lifetime.
- In 2023, an estimated 297,790 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.
- Although rare, men can also develop breast cancer. In fact, about 1 in 1,000 men will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
- You likely know someone who has been personally affected by breast cancer.
- Approximately 64% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at a localized stage before the cancer has spread outside of the breast.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about breast cancer and its importance. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, with an estimated 297,790 new cases diagnosed in 2023. This cancer is also the second leading cause of cancer death among women, after lung cancer.
Breast cancer is a complex disease, but there are a number of things that women can do to reduce their risk, such as maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption. It is also important to get regular mammograms and breast exams to detect breast cancer early when it is most treatable.
Early Detection Saves Lives
The earlier breast cancer is detected, the better you can take measurements. That’s why it’s so important to get regular mammograms and breast exams. Mammograms are X-rays of the breasts that can detect tumors that are too small to be felt. Breast exams are physical exams of the breasts that can also detect tumors and other abnormalities.
The American Cancer Society recommends that women start getting mammograms every year at age 40. Women with a high risk of breast cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease, may need to start getting mammograms earlier or more often.
History Of Breast Cancer Awareness Month
In October 1985, the American Cancer Society and Imperial Chemical Industries (now AstraZeneca) partnered to create the first Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Originally, the goal was to encourage women to get breast cancer screenings and mammograms, as the topic of breast cancer was often kept quiet. However, Breast Cancer Awareness Month has since expanded to include fundraising, treatment options, and research towards finding a cure.
Pink Ribbon Inc., a New York-based charity, now promotes the month-long event, and affiliated groups worldwide participate in fundraising using the pink ribbon motif. Sponsors are encouraged to incorporate the pink theme in their events, sometimes even turning municipal fountains pink.
Since the adoption of the pink ribbon by breast cancer survivors running in the 1990 New York marathon, millions of dollars have been donated to support scientific research and raise public awareness of the disease.
As the observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month gains popularity, events, and activities can be found in towns, cities, and countries worldwide, showing support for those who have breast cancer while working towards a cure.
In the UK, a recent campaign featured English media personality Chris Evans, who offered a pink Rolls-Royce Ghost for hire, complete with chauffeur and champagne, with all proceeds of over £5,000 being donated to the charity.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Ways To Show Support
Breast cancer is a serious health issue that affects millions of women across the world. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is an ideal time to show support for those who have fought breast cancer and work towards prevention and a cure.
Here are some creative ways to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
Host A Breast Cancer Awareness Event
One of the best ways to show support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month is to organize an event. You can work together with others to host an event that encourages women to get regular breast cancer screenings and raises awareness for the cause. From concerts and festivals to bake-offs and auctions, there are many creative ways to make a big deal out of the month of October.
Attend A Breast Cancer Awareness Event
Many people participate in walk or run events “for the cure” during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You can join in on the fun by being a runner or sponsoring someone who is. You can also attend the race to cheer them on or sign up to be a volunteer for an event, whether passing out water bottles or working the registration table.
Get A Breast Cancer Screening
Early detection is crucial in determining whether a case of breast cancer is curable. Take the opportunity this month to make an appointment for a mammogram. Women should also do their own self-breast exams each month and report any unusual findings to their doctor right away.
The Latest On Breast Cancer
Here are some recent developments in breast cancer research and prevention:
– A new targeted therapy has been discovered by scientists that can extend progression-free survival for people with metastatic hormone receptor-positive breast cancer who have previously undergone endocrine therapy.
– According to a draft recommendation released in May 2023 by the US Preventive Services Task Force, all women should now get screened for breast cancer every other year starting at age 40 instead of age 50, which was the previous recommendation. This change is expected to help prevent more women from dying due to breast cancer.
We hope that these advancements will lead to better outcomes for those affected by breast cancer.
Here Are 10 Factors That Can Increase Your Risk Of Breast Cancer:
1. Maintaining A healthy weight
Being at a healthy weight reduces your risk of developing breast cancer, especially after menopause.
2. Staying Active
Regular physical activity can help lower your risk of breast cancer.
3. Drinking Alcohol In Moderation
Drinking alcohol in moderation may help reduce your risk of breast cancer.
4. Limiting Hormone Therapy
Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy, especially estrogen-progestin combination therapy, can increase the risk of breast cancer.
5. Having Children At A Younger Age
Women who have their first child at a younger age and have multiple pregnancies have a lower risk of breast cancer.
6. Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can help lower your risk of breast cancer.
7. Birth Control Pill Use
Using oral contraceptives may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, but the risk decreases after stopping use.
8. Reducing Exposure To Environmental Toxins
Reducing exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants, such as pesticides and chemicals in plastic, may help lower your risk of breast cancer.
9. Eating A Healthy Diet
Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables and low in processed foods and saturated fats may help lower your risk of breast cancer.
10. Quitting Smoking
Quitting smoking can help lower your risk of breast cancer, especially among premenopausal women.
Remember, taking steps to reduce your risk of breast cancer is important for your health and well-being.
Ways To Support Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to show your support for women with breast cancer and their families. Here are some ways you can get involved:
1. Donate To A Breast Cancer Charity: You can make a difference by donating to a breast cancer charity. Your donation can help fund research, provide support for patients and their families, and raise awareness about breast cancer.
2. Volunteer Your Time: There are many ways to volunteer your time to help women with breast cancer. You can offer emotional support, help with fundraising events, or provide transportation to medical appointments.
3. Talk To Your Friends And Family: Raising awareness about breast cancer is important. Talk to your friends and family about the importance of early detection and encourage them to get screened.
4. Wear Pink: Wearing pink is a simple way to show your support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You can wear a pink ribbon or other pink accessories to help raise awareness.
By getting involved in Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you can make a positive impact on the lives of women with breast cancer. Every little bit helps, so consider donating, volunteering, talking to your loved ones, or wearing pink to show your support.
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