Photo of the month of October and a pink Breast Cancer Awareness ribbon. Credit: Leeloo The First for Canva.com.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the United States. Pink ribbons are everywhere, NFL players wear pink cleats, and cities host 5ks and fundraising walks. The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) was founded in 1991 and is still working to help fund early detection methods, education, and support services for women. According to the NBCF, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime; however, with early detection, they have a 99% survival rate. During October, NBCF and many other charities work to raise funds for research, provide education, and bolster hope. NBCF’s story and mission can be found at the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024.
Cancer prevention and survival can be attributed to reducing exposure to carcinogens (a substance or organisms that are known to cause cancer), diet and lifestyle changes, and early detection of cancerous conditions. More information on cancer prevention can be found at the National Cancer Institute Cancer Prevention Overview (PDQ).
Since diet and lifestyle have such a prominent role in cancer prevention, one area of breast cancer research is the impact that breastfeeding has on breast cancer. Breastfeeding is just one lifestyle choice that can impact breast cancer. Studies have shown that there is a clear connection between breastfeeding and reducing the risk of developing breast cancer later in life. A list of other lifestyle choices for reducing the risk of developing breast cancer can be found at Susan G. Komen Healthy Lifestyle Choices.
