Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What You Need to Know

Breast cancer remains one of the most significant health challenges facing women today, with millions affected globally. According to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program, an estimate of almost 4 million women were living with female breast cancer in the United States. In 2024, approximately 310,720 women and 2,800 men in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.

As such, every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of early detection and advocacy of breast cancer awareness. Read on to learn about basic breast cancer facts, the essential role of breast cancer screening, how advocacy and awareness are essential in the fight against breast cancer and how you can get involved in making a difference.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease where abnormal cells in the breast tissues grow in an uncontrolled manner. Although it is more common in females, males can also develop breast cancer. If left undetected and untreated, it can cause cancerous cells to spread to other areas of the breast and even to other parts of the body, leading to severe consequences.

Learn more: An Overview of Breast Cancer

Symptoms of breast cancer

Not everyone with breast cancer has the same symptoms. Some people experience no symptoms at all. However, it is important to be aware of the symptoms of breast cancer so you know what to look out for:

• Lump in the breast
• Lump in the underarm/armpit
• Persistent swelling and/or tenderness in the breast or nipple
• Clear or bloody nipple discharge
• Inverted (retracted) nipple
• Changes in the breast and/or nipple skin
• Unusual breast pain or discomfort
• Unexplained changes in the size or shape of the breast

If you are experiencing one or more of these common breast cancer symptoms, do consult a health professional to get it checked.

Learn more: The Warning Signs of Breast Cancer: What to Look Out for

The importance of breast cancer screening

Early detection of breast cancer is crucial as it greatly improves the prognosis of diagnosed breast cancer. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the more treatment options are available, and the better the chances of successful treatment. In fact, the 5-year survival rate for localized cancers detected early is 99%. Therefore, it is important to be aware of how breast cancer can be detected, diagnosed and treated early. One of the most effective ways to detect breast cancer early is through breast cancer screening. Through screening, it is possible to detect cancer even before any symptoms appear, allowing for early intervention. In the case of breast cancer, yearly mammograms for women aged 40 and older are encouraged, though this may vary according to individual risk factors and circumstances. Depending on various factors, alternative or additional methods, such as breast MRI scans or breast ultrasounds, may also be used.

Learn more: Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Early Detection Through Screening

Participate in public awareness events

There are many public awareness and advocacy events that aim to raise awareness about breast cancer. These may include fundraisers for breast cancer research and essential programs and services. Participating in or even just sharing such events with others not only contributes financially to the cause but also builds community. Local organizations and community support groups are at the heart of breast cancer advocacy. By attending and supporting these events, you’re providing essential support to breast cancer patients and their families.

Donate to reputable organizations

Donations, whether big or small, play a crucial role in funding breast cancer research, education, early detection programs and support services for those affected by breast cancer. Here are some breast cancer organizations that accept donations for breast cancer research, awareness and advocacy:

• National Breast Cancer foundation (NBCF)
  Donations to the NBCF goes directly to a woman in need, providing her with the support and resources to navigate the tough circumstances of breast cancer.
• Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF)
  This year (2024), BCRF is the largest private funder of breast cancer research — and metastatic breast cancer research — worldwide and is the highest-rated breast cancer research organization in the country.
• Susan G. Komen
  Donations to Susan G. Komen are invested in breast cancer research, outreach , advocacy, financial assistance and support for breast cancer patients. To date, the organization has invested nearly $3.6 billion in groundbreaking research, community health outreach, advocacy and programs in more than 60 countries.

Volunteer with cancer organizations and support groups

Time is another precious resource that is greatly needed to support the cause. Many breast cancer organizations are nonprofit and rely on volunteers to help with events, provide support to patients, and assist with educational outreach.

Sharing your story

Personal stories of survival, hope, and advocacy are powerful tools in raising awareness. By sharing your experience with breast cancer, whether as a survivor, a caregiver, or a supporter, you can inspire others and contribute to the collective effort to end this disease. Storytelling helps to humanize the statistics and reminds everyone that behind every number is a person fighting for their life.

If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer or are a survivor of breast cancer, do consider sharing your story with us here on Our Cancer Stories. Join hundreds of people who have bravely shared their cancer journey and help someone else who may gain knowledge, comfort and solidarity from reading your story.

The fight against breast cancer requires a collective effort focused on screening, advocacy, and awareness. Regular screenings save lives by detecting cancer early when it is most treatable. Advocacy drives the research and policy changes needed to improve outcomes and ensure access to care for all. Awareness efforts educate and empower individuals to take action, whether through getting screened, supporting a loved one, or participating in community initiatives. Together, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer — one step, one story, and one action at a time.