Right now there are more than two in a half million breast cancer survivors in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society.
Breast Cancer is a malignant tumor that begins in the cells of the breast. Breast Cancer is most commonly found in women but can be found on men as well. The Health Communities Magazine states that 89 percent of women with breast cancer survive for five years or more.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) said that a woman can help reduce their chances of developing breast cancer by engaging in regular physical activities, maintaining healthy habits and limiting ones alcohol intake. Although breast cancer is typically found in women over 30 years old the ACS said that if you are 20-39 years old you should have a clinical breast exam as a part of your periodic health exam, at least every three years; report any breast change to your doctor right away and to do regular self-exams for finding changes.
Every year the University of Montana athletic teams host their PINK games during the month of October to bring awareness to breast cancer. During the 2010 UM football game the stadium was covered in pink, this year’s PINK football game was Saturday, October 29. The UM soccer and volleyball teams hosted their PINK games this past weekend and were both brought awareness and supported the fight against breast cancer with their PINK jerseys.
This year the UM Bookstore released PINK jerseys and shirts from Team Up Montana. Team Up Montana is committed to raising awareness and funding for cancer patients in Montana, the team began with dedicated professionals from St. Patrick’s Hospital. The team has now grown with several sponsors throughout western Montana.
The ACS states that it is about bring awareness, attention and support to cancer, the University of Montana Curry Health Center has several brochures on breast cancer and various other cancers and diseases.