October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society approximately 232,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2013. Breast cancer is the number two leading cause of death in women, yet there are currently 2.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. alone. In spite of the scary statistics, when breast cancer is detected early and confined to the breast the five year survival rate is 98%. What can you do this month and throughout the year?
Be proactive. The best protection is early detection, so take control of your own health. If you're over 40 have a mammogram every year. Women always put the needs of others first, whether it's work, family, home or kids. Don't forget, the most important thing you can do for your loved ones is to be around. Make it about more than the here and now, make it about tomorrow and the day after, and make that appointment.
Get involved. There are countless runs, walks, and other type of charity events in every community with the sole purpose of raising funds for research, free screenings, or cancer support groups, so participate and make a difference however small, however you can. It could be as simple as having a yard sale and donating the proceeds to the American Cancer Society or another worthy organization. Every little bit helps.
Get the word out. Finding the cure starts with awareness. Whether it's wearing a pink ribbon, putting up a bumper sticker on your car, wearing a pink shirt, or simply adding a breast cancer awareness message to your email signature. Take every opportunity to raise awareness about this insidious disease that takes too many wonderful women; mothers, daughters, sisters, cousins, aunts, and friends.
Make a difference. "Do it for those that have lost the fight and those who won't quit the fight."