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 October 2007 Back to Table of Contents Back to Archives Main Page Section: Being Well October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month By Julia Friedman Since 1985, October has been designated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But highlighting the effects and warning signs of the disease is a year-round goal. The numbers don’t lie — according to the National Cancer Institute, in 2007 there were an estimated 178,480 new cases of breast cancer in women and 2,030 in men. In another estimate, 40,460 women and 450 men died from this particular type of cancer. New technology can help lower these statistics by detecting cancer in its early stages more accurately. In addition to mammograms, there are other options, such as breast MRI exams. A recent study found that 23 more cancer cases out of 1,000 women screened were detected by using the MRI, compared to mammography and ultrasound. The American Cancer Society now recommends these women to receive annual tests in conjunction to mammography. The numbers are shocking, but these new methods offer hope for the future. There are many hypotheses as to what can trigger breast cancer, such as age, gender, family history, lifestyle, and race. One person’s family history could be the cause while another person’s alcohol abuse might be a factor. Whatever the catalyst, there is no denying the trends. But if you eat right, exercise, and maintain an overall healthy lifestyle, your chances of developing breast cancer may be decreased. It is important to receive routine medical examinations to test for breast cancer in addition to leading a healthy lifestyle. Encourage family and friends to follow the same advice and, by doing so, the number of people who fall victim to breast cancer every year can be lowered. For more information on National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, visit www.nbcam.com. back to top back to table of contents Current Issue | About Forever Young | Where to Find | Advertise | Our Advertisers | Community Calendar | Contest | Clubs | Contact Us | Archives | Home |