This month of October is annually dedicated to recognizing and spreading awareness of Breast Cancer. This month is a time to increase public understanding on breast cancer and the impact it leaves on individuals and families. Breast Cancer is diagnosed in 270,000 women taking the lives of 42,000 every year, according to the CDC. In just America alone, there are over 4 million survivors. During the lifetime of eight women, one of them will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer.
This year, there is heavy emphasis on the importance of detection. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year relative survival rate of localized breast cancer is 99 percent. This highlights just how important regular screenings, such as mammograms, are in identifying the disease at its most treatable stage. It is recommended that women begin annual mammograms at 40 or earlier if they have a family history of breast cancer.
In addition to the screening emphasis, this month serves to create community support and advocacy. Organizations work to fund research, provide educational resources and support those undergoing treatments. Fundraising events, such as walks and runs, play a significant role in these efforts of raising millions of dollars to help support research as well as patients currently struggling.
As October progresses, communities are encouraged to participate in activities to spread awareness such as wearing pink and becoming educated. The continuous fight against breast cancer needs collective efforts of raising awareness to continue to save lives.
This year, many communities are hosting awareness events that go beyond traditional funding. Breast cancer goes beyond just treatments but often the emotional and psychological health is disregarded. Mental support to those undergoing treatment is being more addressed and brought to light.
Social media has also become a powerful tool for spreading awareness for breast cancer. People use their social media platforms like Instagram, Tiktok and Facebook to share personal stories and experiences. When people see others on social media going through similar situations as them it makes them feel less alone in the scary situation of cancer.
By educating people who might be unaware of how their choices and lifestyles impact the risk of getting cancer, there is hope in encouraging pro-active health measures.
Breast Cancer is not solely about just raising awareness, it is a call to action for individuals to take the reins on their own health. With early detections that are always progressing and community support, hope for the people impacted and their families increases.
