October is National Breast Cancer Month, a time to learn about Breast Cancer and spread awareness for this destructive disease. According to the American Breast Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed amongst women and the second leading cause of cancer related death among women.
What is Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer is most commonly found in women, but under rare circumstances, men can develop it too. Breast cancer begins in the breast tissue, an organ that sits above the ribs and chest. The cancer can develop in different parts of the breast and, in some cases, in both breasts.
How Breast Cancer Develops
According to the National Cancer Institute, Breast Cancer develops when abnormal malignant cells grow and develop rapidly in breast tissue, often forming a lump or mass. These cells can invade and spread to other parts of the body being life threatening.
Prevention of breast cancer
While breast cancer cannot always be prevented, certain lifestyle choices can help reduce the risk. The National Cancer Institute highlights that factors such as old age, obesity, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity may increase the risk.
Genetics also play an important role. Women with a family history of breast cancer, especially in close relatives, face a higher risk. For those who are in higher-risk areas, doctors advise getting screened regularly and looking out for signs.
By helping to spread awareness, more women feel inspired to get screened. In 2025 alone, the National Cancer Institute reported over 316,000 new cases of breast cancer, with over 42,000 deaths. However, the Institution notes that many deaths were prevented through early detection of the cancer.
This October, encourage others to get screened for breast cancer and help educate and spread awareness to inspire others. By finding the cancer early doctors can save the lives of many.
