October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands of women each year and affecting countries at all levels of modernization.
According to the American Cancer Society, when breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage,the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. There are over 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.
Adult women of all ages are encouraged to perform breast self-exams at least once a month. Mammography can detect tumors before they can be felt, so screening is key for early detection.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) provides critical information to women and families about how they can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, find breast cancer early, access screening programs, and eliminate barriers to quality treatment if later diagnosed.
There are exciting new options for detection and treatment of breast cancer. We encourage you to reach out to your healthcare provider for more information.
