Did you know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? Most people do -- after all, this is the time of year that many people, businesses, and organizations 'go pink' in order to raise awareness about this illness. But there are many things that people don't actually know about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, or about breast cancer itself. There's no better way to spend October than actually making yourself aware of some facts about breast cancer -- so read on to learn more.
1. About 1 in every 8 American Women Develop Breast Cancer
According to Breastcancer.org, the diagnosis rate is about 12 percent -- meaning that out of 100 women, twelve will develop invasive breast cancer. However, that doesn't mean that the mortality rate is nearly that high. In cases of stage 1 or stage 0 breast cancer, women have a nearly 100% relative survival rate, and a 93% relative survival rate with stage 2 breast cancer, cancer.org reports. Thanks to advances in research and increased awareness, the mortality rate has been falling since the 1980's!
2. Breast Cancer is the Second Most Commonly Diagnosed Cancer in Women
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, but breast cancer makes up a large percentage of diagnoses. In fact, according to Breastcancer.org, 30% of the cancer diagnoses in the US this year are expected to be breast cancers. And yes, there are many types of breast cancers -- it's not just one single kind that affects women. Or men -- because, as it turns out...
3. Men Can Get Breast Cancer, Too
Breast cancer diagnoses are much more common in women, but that doesn't mean that men are immune. Nearly 2,500 men are estimated to be diagnosed with new cases of breast cancer this year, according to cancer.gov. This is a much lower number than the expected number of women who will be diagnosed with this disease -- nearly 250,000 cases -- but still a substantial number.
4. Knowing The Risk Factors is Vital
Not all of your risk factors can be helped. Your age, gender and family history have an effect on how likely you are to develop breast cancer. But Breastcancer.org makes it clear that there are many other ways you can prevent this disease! Other risk factors include smoking, drinking alcohol and being overweight. So by living an overall healthier lifestyle, you can keep your risk of developing breast cancer to a minimum.
5. You Can Help!
There are many ways you can do your part to help in the fight against breast cancer. Wear pink to keep awareness strong this month -- we have many pink products that are designed to do just that! Research the charities that you give to, and look for ones that use their funds responsibly. Take part in walks and fundraisers, and find out ways to volunteer locally in order to help people in your area who have been diagnosed. Who knows--maybe we'll knock out breast cancer for good in the next few years!
