Each Fall, the color pink can be seen more often than usual; t-shirts, ribbons, hats, athletic equipment, and even hair. It’s no secret that Breast Cancer is a serious problem affecting thousands of women and their families every single day. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed by thousands of organizations and individuals all over the United States; and that awareness is indicated by the color pink.
During the month of October, the goal is to increase awareness of this disease and to encourage people to undergo medical examinations in hope of early detection. NationalBreastCancer.org states that early detection results in 98% survival rate. Monthly self-exams, regular clinical exams and mammograms can help with early detection and prevention.
According to the website for the Susan G. Komen organization, there will be 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 39,620 breast cancer deaths in 2013. Even though mostly women are affected by breast cancer, men can be victims as well. In 2013, there will be 2,240 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 410 deaths in men.
Although most breast cancer deaths occur in women over the age of 50, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among women ages 20-59 which makes early detection that much more important.
During the entire month of October various organizations and communities will be holding fundraisers, walks, and other events to raise money for breast cancer research. Other organizations, hospitals and doctor’s offices will be encouraging patients to get a mammogram and breast examination. From the NFL to minivans with pink ribbon bumper stickers, thousands of Americans are participating in the fight against breast cancer.
The American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M) offers a Fellowship in Integrative Cancer Therapies where medical professionals, regardless of specialty, can enroll in this innovative program. Participants learn cutting-edge therapies, how to better and elongate the lives of cancer patients, case histories, and much more. For more information, visit www.a4m.com.