Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, aside from skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), an estimated 182,460 new cases of invasive breast cancer were expected to be diagnosed among women in the United States last year. Approximately 1,990 new cases were expected in men. The ACS also reports that an estimated 40,930 breast cancer deaths were expected in 2008.
The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) organization is a partnership of national public service organizations, professional medical associations, and government agencies working together to promote breast cancer awareness, share information on the disease, and provide greater access to screening services.
In 2009, NBCAM celebrates its 25th anniversary. Since its inception a quarter century ago, NBCAM has been at the forefront of promoting awareness of breast cancer issues and has evolved along with the national dialogue on breast cancer. Today, NBCAM recognizes that although many great strides have been made in breast cancer awareness and treatment, there remains much to be accomplished. As the NBCAM celebrates its 25th anniversary, its members remain dedicated to educating and empowering women to take charge of their own breast health by practicing regular self-breast exams to identify any changes, scheduling regular visits and annual mammograms with their healthcare provider, adhering to prescribed treatment, and knowing the facts about recurrence.
Building on National Breast Cancer Awareness Month the Center highlights its efforts in contributing to both breast cancer survival and coping with cancers in southeastern Milwaukee in its October issue of Get Engaged!
