Every year the month of October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The purpose of this month is to increase the awareness of breast cancer. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. In addition to this, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is important because during this time, those whose lives have been affected by breast cancer are acknowledged.
During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, those who are currently fighting breast cancer and survivors of breast cancer share their stories and are celebrated for their bravery. Along with this, one of the main goals of this month is to raise funds for breast cancer research so better treatments can be developed and doctors can learn more about the disease. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is critical to emphasize the importance of detecting breast cancer early. The American Cancer Society reports that early detection of breast cancer heavily increased the likelihood of survival. Along with this, The National Breast Cancer Foundation found that death rates from breast cancer have declined 40% from 1989 to 2016 when breast cancer is detected early. Therefore, it is incredibly important for women to get breast cancer screenings.
Since education is an important part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is important to know the risk factors of breast cancer. According to breastcancer.org, the most common risk for breast cancer is increasing age. In fact, 66% of breast cancer patients are diagnosed after the age of 55. Another risk factor is family history. Women with relatives who have had breast cancer are at higher risk of getting breast cancer. Since women with relatives have a higher risk for breast cancer, The American Cancer Society reports that doctors estimate about 5%-10% of breast cancer is hereditary. Therefore, it is very important for women to learn about their family medical history to discover if they are at high risk for breast cancer. For more information about Breast Cancer Awareness Month, please visit The National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Along with this, The American Cancer Society is a great resource to learn more about breast cancer, the signs, and risk factors.
Additionally, you can visit BreastCancer.Org to learn more about the diagnosis and treatments for breast cancer.
If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this week’s article, please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office. Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency, or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. As always, my offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns, or comments (Capitol Office, 512-463-0672; District Office, 361-949-4603).
– State Representative Todd Hunter, District 32
Rep. Hunter represents part of Nueces County. He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672.
