Most people know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month – an annual campaign to increase public awareness of breast cancer – however, most people do not actively recognize it or make efforts to support it. Every 2 minutes, a woman in the U.S. is diagnosed with breast cancer. About 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in their lifetimes. Almost everyone has been in some way affected by the disease.
As young women, we often feel immune to diseases such as breast cancer, but it is so important that even teenagers and young adults remain conscious of the symptoms and warning signs in order to catch it early. It is important for your doctor to do a breast exam each visit, and you can even do them on your own. Most cases of breast cancer are not caused by inherited genetic factors, which is why it is important to urge the women in your life of all ages to get an annual mammogram. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women. However, when caught early, it is very treatable.
We can help spread the word about breast cancer by participating in National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. There are a number of ways you can do this: participate in a walk, share stories, donate to the cause, and wear pink during the month of October.
A number of big companies support National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and create pink merchandise that when purchased, a portion of the funds is directed toward breast cancer research. My favorite this year, is the Live Lokai Breast Cancer Bracelet. Live Lokai is a great company because they support and donate to a number of different charity organizations such as Make A Wish, Best Buddies, Alzheimer’s Association, World Wildlife Fund, and many more. Each style of bracelet benefits a different organization.
For just $18, you can support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation by purchasing the limited-edition pink Breast Cancer Lokai, which is available until October 31st. Live Lokai will donate $1 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation for each bracelet sold within the month of October.