Get ready to pull out your pink ribbons and donate to a good cause, because it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Learning about breast cancer helps with early identification and builds a more supportive and stronger community for many who have faced it. But what really is breast cancer, and what signs should you be on the lookout for?
Breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society, occurs when “abnormal cells grow out of control and crowd out normal cells,” specifically in one or both breasts. Although most lumps in the breast are benign, it’s important to get checked out just in case. If cancer cells from the breast get into the blood or lymph system, they can spread to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer is a big issue. It accounts for about one-third of cancer in women, and about 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lifetime. It’s most common in middle-aged and older women. In 2025, it’s estimated that 42,680 breast cancer deaths will occur in the US. It’s also estimated that 316,950 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed in the US this year. With these harrowing statistics, it’s important to understand what to be on the lookout for.
Early detection of breast cancer can make all the difference. When detected early, it is much easier to treat. One of the best ways to improve breast cancer detection is to have regular screening tests. The American Cancer Society has screening guidelines for women with an average risk of breast cancer and women with a high risk.
For women with average risk of breast cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends getting mammograms regularly after turning 45. A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray of the breast that can detect potential cancer cells years before physical symptoms are obvious. Although they aren’t perfect, mammograms are extremely helpful for early detection.
Even without a mammogram, knowing the common symptoms of breast cancer can help catch the disease early. The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass in the breast. Other symptoms include swelling of the breast, skin dimpling, breast pain, nipple retraction, breast skin irregularities (such as redness or flaking), abnormal nipple discharge, and swollen lymph nodes. Not all breast changes are breast cancer (benign breast conditions and changes through period, pregnancy, and menopause can all cause changes), but keeping an eye on any new changes and sharing them with your doctor can ensure that you stay safe.
This October, consider donating to the American Cancer Society and spreading breast cancer awareness in your community. If you’re a UNT student, come to Her Campus’ “Pink Out Picnic” event for breast cancer awareness. It’s time to come together, put on our pink ribbons, and fight for our sisters.