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State Representative Richard Adams
Battling Breast
Cancer and Raising Awareness
I hope this October, you’ve been able to join with others across the
nation to honor, remember and reflect on the brave individuals who have
battled, and are currently battling, breast cancer. First established
in 1985, the annual Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign seeks to
generate attention for the disease and raise funds for research on its
prevention, treatment, and eventual cure.
Despite the fact that many Americans may know about the disease and
might notice the abundance of pink ribbons worn throughout the month of
October, often individuals are not fully informed on how to detect the
disease in its early stages, or are hesitant to encourage others to do
so. That is why it is vital for both men and women to rally behind the
cause.
Currently, breast cancer is the second-leading cause of death among
women in the United States, and it is listed by the World Health
Organization as the most common female cancer worldwide. Each year, it
is projected that more than 220,000 American women will be diagnosed
with the disease, and tragically, more than 40,000 of these women will
lose their fight with breast cancer, according to the National Breast
Cancer Foundation.
While the statistics are distressing, recent breast cancer trends have
shown more positive and uplifting results. Death rates from breast
cancer have been on the decline since the 1990s, and recent studies
have demonstrated a gradual reduction in breast cancer rates for women
aged 50 and older. Improved early screening and detection, evolving and
expanded treatment options, and a rise in awareness and regular
self-exams are all factors in these promising developments.
The significant gains in breast cancer research and awareness are
encouraging, yet there is still progress to be made. We must continue
to educate women, volunteer for fundraisers, and support research so
that breast cancer can someday be eliminated from our local communities
and from communities across the globe.
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