Breast Cancer Awareness Month — Why Screening Matters
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of prevention, early detection, and education. Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women, yet with proper screening and awareness, outcomes can greatly improve.
Key Facts About Breast Cancer
- Incidence & Risk: In 2025, the American Cancer Society estimates there will be about 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer and 59,080 cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). A woman’s lifetime risk is 1 in 8.
- Mortality: About 42,170 women are expected to die from breast cancer in 2025. Breast cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer death in women.
- Disparities: Mortality is highest for Black women, with rates about 40% higher compared to white women, even when adjusted for age and stage at diagnosis.
- Trends: Breast cancer incidence has been increasing by 1% per year in recent years, with a slightly sharper rise in women younger than 50. Risk factors include excess body weight, delayed childbirth, or not having children.
The Importance of Screening
- Mammography saves lives: It is the most widely used screening tool and has been shown to reduce breast cancer mortality, especially in women ages 50–69.
- Guidelines: The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends biennial mammograms for women ages 40 to 74. Talk to your provider about a screening schedule that best fits you.
- Coverage: Most health insurance plans cover screening mammograms every 1–2 years starting at age 40, with no out-of-pocket costs.
Final Thoughts
While the statistics may feel heavy, there’s hope in prevention, early detection, and survivorship. Today, more than 4 million survivors are living proof of the power of early detection and treatment. Nearly all of us know someone who has been touched by this disease, whether through survivorship or heartbreaking loss. This October, let’s celebrate the strength of survivors, honor those we’ve lost, and continue raising awareness, because awareness leads to action, and action saves lives.
https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/hp/breast-screening-pdq
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer/about/how-common-is-breast-cancer.html