It is time to put on that favorite pink shirt because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“Pink October” is the month to raise awareness of the importance of prevention and early detection of breast cancer.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), breast cancer is the leading cancer diagnosis and the second leading cause of cancer- related deaths in women in the United States.
The following information was released in the 20242025 Breast Cancer Facts & Figures study conducted by the ACS: One in eight women in the U.S. will receive an invasive breast cancer diagnosis and one in 43 will succumb to the disease.
Breast cancer accounts for about 30% of all new cancer diagnoses in women each year.
The median age for breast cancer diagnosis is 62.
The highest probability of cancer diagnosis comes between the ages of 65 and 84.
Diagnosis of breast cancer has increased by 1% each year. The rise is higher among women under 50.
White, Asian and Pacific Islander women are more likely to be diagnosed with localized breast cancer.
Women of color have the highest death rate due to a higher risk of triple-negative breast cancer.
Women who have taken oral contraceptives and postmenopausal therapy have a slightly increased risk.
Death rates from breast cancer have had an overall decline of 44% from 1989 to 2022 due to early detection screenings, awareness and better treatments.
There are more than 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.
While women are most commonly diagnosed with breast cancer, the disease isn’t gender exclusive.
This year alone, the ACS estimates approximately 2,800 men will be diagnosed and 530 will die from invasive breast cancer.
While no guarantee exists to prevent breast cancer, lifestyle choices and medical interventions can greatly reduce risks.
Obesity, alcohol consumption and smoking increase cancer risks.
Health care professionals suggest engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced diet and getting plenty of sleep.
A study by the ACS found adult women who gained 20 pounds or more after age 18 were 40% more likely to develop breast cancer after menopause.
According to health care professionals, physical activity helps in regulating hormones and reducing inflammation. Exercise combined with eating a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables as well as lean meats also decreases the amount of fat tissues. These fat tissues, studies show, lead to an increase in estrogen production which is shown to increase cancer risks.
Early detection is key.
Women over age 40 should get yearly mammograms. Those with a family history of cancer should begin screenings earlier, said the ACS.
And the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) recommends performing monthly breast self-examinations to detect changes early.
There are several ways to get involved.
Making donations to reputable organizations like the NBCF or the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Research Foundation helps support research, treatment and patient care programs.
Sharing information and survivor stories helps to inspire others battling the disease.
And wearing pink encourages conversations and shows support for those battling.
The Tribune will be publishing a special pull out tab section on Breast Cancer Awareness on October 22, 2025 filled with vital information.
