In 2024, more than 360,000 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer. But there is hope. Advancements in early detection methods and support continue to increase the chances of survival. When caught in its earliest, localized stages, the 5-year relative survival rate of breast cancer is 99%.
However, early detection for all is only possible through action.
The National Breast Cancer Foundation is dedicated to Helping Women Now®. The earlier we act, the bigger our impact — and we need your help.
This October, we’ll share ways for you to learn, connect, and act. You’ll receive free educational resources to support your breast health, hear from medical experts as they share vital information, and learn how you can make a difference right now.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Please see The American Association for Cancer Research page on breast cancer for more information on prevention, screening, and treatment, as well as breast cancer treatment during pregnancy.
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Breast Cancer Awareness Month, held in October every year, aims to promote screening and prevention of the disease, which affects one in eight women in the United States every year and 2.3 million women worldwide. Known best for its pink theme color, the month features a number of campaigns and programs — conducted by groups ranging from breast cancer advocacy organizations to local community organizations to major retailers — aimed at:
• supporting people diagnosed with breast cancer, including metastatic breast cancer
• educating people about breast cancer risk factors stressing the importance of regular screening, starting at age 40 or an age that’s appropriate for your personal breast cancer risk
• fundraising for breast cancer research
Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day
October 13 is nationally recognized in the United States as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. About 30% of early-stage breast cancers eventually metastasize (spread to parts of the body away from the breast), and the day is intended to drive awareness of the need for more research about metastatic disease.
Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week
Although breast cancer is much more common in women, breast cancer affects men, too. In 2021, U.S. President Joe Biden designated October 17 to October 23 Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week. About 2,710 American men this year are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer, and about 530 are expected to die from the disease. But lack of awareness and stigma can be barriers to detection and care. Some men, trans men, and non-binary people choose to call their cancer chest cancer.
This information is provided by Breastcancer.org.
Donate to support free resources and programming for people affected by breast cancer.
See also:
Fine Particular Matter Linked to Increase in Breast Cancer Risk – Study
A significant increase in risk seen for ER-positive breast cancer, but not ER-negative tumors.
