Every October we look forward to a very worthy effort – raising awareness about breast cancer. You might be wondering why would we look forward to highlighting Breast Cancer Awareness Month (October) and addressing this topic? For these simple facts as provided by the National Breast Cancer Foundation:
- 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.
- In 2021, an estimated 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S. as well as 49,290 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer.
- 63% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at a localized stage (there is no sign that the cancer has spread outside of the breast), for which the 5-year survival rate is 99%.
- This year, an estimated 43,600 women will die from breast cancer in the U.S.
- Although rare, men get breast cancer too. In 2021, an estimated 2,650 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year in the U.S. and approximately 530 will die.
We’re always proud that many Project Access communities across the country make the effort to generate awareness because breast cancer has affected both our staff and residents. We hope this awareness effort translates into annual check-ups, early detection, and successful treatment for anyone who might be affected.
It’s important that everyone educate themselves on this serious health topic. The best resource for factual information is https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org
And remember, breast cancer awareness and education is not just for the month of October, you can support this worthy cause any time of year.
We salute our staff and residents who may be survivors of breast cancer and send good thoughts to anyone who may presently fighting their own battle. Because anyone can be affected by breast cancer let’s join together in supporting our wives, mothers, daughters, aunts, and grandmas in this common cause.