October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

October 02, 2017

Breast cancer awareness was started for the obvious purpose of spreading education about breast cancer which is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women in the United States.

Breast Cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the breast tissues and invade other surrounding tissue. Early detection and treatment increases the chances of survival from this cancer.

Breast Cancer Facts in the U.S.

• It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women
• It is estimated that more than 220,000 women in the U.S. is diagnosed with this disease every year. Of these, more than 40,000 die
• It is the second leading cause of death among women
• One in 8 women will be diagnosed with this cancer in their lifetime
• This is not a disease only for women. It is estimated that 2,150 men are diagnosed with this cancer each year and of these, 410 die

Breast cancer is a global problem; affecting women from all over the world. The World Health Organization reports that this type of cancer kills hundreds of thousands of women every year.

The good news is, due to increased awareness, death rates have been declining since 1990. The incidence of this disease in women aged 50 and older is also on the decline. Awareness campaigns have helped encourage women to take screening for early detection. Treatment options are also improving continually.

October marks National Breast Cancer Awareness month (NBCAM). NBCAM was established in 1985 and its purpose has been to promote mammography as the main weapon against breast cancer. NBCAM became an annual campaign recognized by many countries not just the U.S. and supported by many cancer survivors. There is a need to promote such awareness campaign because though many know about breast cancer, not all know the necessary steps to take in order to detect the disease at the earliest possible time. Awareness helps save life.

Pink is the color chosen to symbolize breast cancer awareness because this is associated with feminine power, hope and optimism, faith in scientific progress for breast cancer cure and the generosity of people and business who support the movement against breast cancer.  Wearing a pink ribbon signifies solidarity with the women and men who are battling breast cancer.

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