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Every October, pink ribbons pop up everywhere — on shirts, in store windows, even on football fields. But Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about more than color. It’s a reminder to take action: get screened, know your risk, and support the people and families impacted by this disease.
The Reality: 1 in 8 Women
Breast cancer touches nearly every family in some way.
- 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed during her lifetime.
- Someone is diagnosed every 2 minutes.
- Around 44,000 people die from the disease each year.
The good news? Early detection saves lives. Regular screenings and better treatments have helped lower death rates — but that progress depends on staying proactive and informed.
Know Your Risk. Know Your Body.
Two things increase your risk most: being female and getting older. But there are other factors too, like family history and lifestyle.
Knowing what’s normal for your body helps you spot changes early. If something feels different — a lump, pain, or swelling — don’t wait. Talk to your doctor.
And if you’re 40 or older, it’s time to schedule a mammogram. Regular screening is one of the best ways to catch breast cancer early, when treatment works best.
Closing the Gap
Not everyone has the same access to care. Black women in the U.S., for example, are about 40% more likely to die from breast cancer than white women.
That’s why awareness alone isn’t enough — we also need to fight for equity in healthcare. This work includes breaking down barriers to screening, treatment, and financial support so everyone can get the care they deserve.
How You Can Help
Here’s how you can get involved:
- Get screened. If you’re due for a mammogram, schedule it.
- Know your family history. Share it with your doctor.
- Join an event. Walk, run, or volunteer with Komen’s Race for the Cure or 3-Day events.
- Donate or spread the word. Even small actions create big ripples.
Hope Starts Here
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is about more than awareness, it’s about action. When you learn your risk, encourage a friend to get screened, or support research, you’re helping move us closer to a world without breast cancer.
Together, we can turn awareness into impact — and hope into progress.