The month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It was established in 1985 as an annual campaign to raise awareness regarding the impact of breast cancer as well as fund research into its causes, treatment, and cure.
What Is Breast Cancer?
One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. This type of cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissue of the breast. Although not as common as in women, men may develop breast cancer as well. However, less than one precent of all breast cancer cases develop in men; only one in a thousand men will face a diagnosis of breast cancer.
Risk Factors
Cancer occurs when a cell’s DNA becomes damaged. However, why or how that happens is still an unknown. It could be genetics or environmental. In most cases, it’s believed to be a combination of both. However, most patients will never know what caused their cancer. The National Breast Cancer Foundation provides an extensive list of environmental and lifestyle risk factors that may impact someone developing this disease.
Early Detection Saves Lives
When breast cancer is detected early and is in the localized stage, the five-year relative survival rate is 99% according to the American Cancer Society. Therefore, it is very important to conduct monthly breast self-exams and schedule regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.
Support and Give Back
There are several ways one can support awareness of this illness. Two of the most common are donating and fundraising. You are able to shop and donate to Fairbanks’ local Breast Cancer Detection Center online. The BCDC will hold their 17th Annual BCDC Gala Affair (Rose’ The Night Away) on Friday, October 21st, 2022. You are able to register for the event on their website.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Info Sources: National Breast Cancer Foundation; Living Beyond Breast Cancer; Breast Cancer Detection Center
Photo Source: Adobe Stock
