Every October, pink ribbons pop up everywhere signaling Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But behind the symbols are millions of people whose lives have been affected by the disease in one way or another. Awareness isn’t just about ribbons; it’s about conversations, early detection, and making sure everyone has the same access to lifesaving care.
What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer happens when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the breast tissue. It’s the most common cancer diagnosed in American women (other than skin cancer) and the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States behind lung cancer.
- About 1 in 8 women (13 percent) will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
- In 2025, an estimated 316,950 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the United States.
- More than 4 million survivors are currently living in the United States, thanks to earlier detection and better treatments.
- When caught at a localized stage, the 5-year survival rate is 99 percent.
That’s why awareness and action matter so much.
Early Detection Saves Lives
The truth is simple: Finding breast cancer early makes it easier to treat. That’s why regular screenings are so important. Mammograms can spot changes in breast tissue before they’re felt, lowering the risk of late-stage diagnosis.
Dr. Carmen Lam, one of our Hill Physicians oncologists, reminds patients that there’s reason for optimism:
“The cure rate overall, regardless of stage, is more than 90 percent. It’s important to encourage patients to be hopeful, because their outlook is very strong.”
Her message is clear — screenings give us the best chance at catching breast cancer early, when treatment outcomes are most successful.
Signs and Symptoms to Know
Not all breast cancers come with warning signs, but some symptoms to look out for include:
- A new lump in the breast or underarm
- Thickening or swelling of part of the breast
- Irritation or dimpling of the skin
- Redness or flaky skin on the breast or around the nipple
- Pulling in of the nipple or nipple pain
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk), including blood
- Any change in the size or shape of the breast
- Breast pain
Most breast changes don’t signal cancer, but if you notice something unusual, it’s always safer to get checked.
Disparities in Breast Cancer Outcomes
Breast cancer touches every community, but outcomes aren’t the same across the board.
- Black women are about 40 percent more likely to die from breast cancer than white women and are more often diagnosed with aggressive triple-negative breast cancer.
- Hispanic women are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages, when treatment is harder.
- Asian and Pacific Islander women are more often diagnosed at earlier, more treatable stages and have the lowest breast cancer death rates.
- Men aren’t immune: About 1 in 726 men in the United States will be diagnosed in their lifetime.
These disparities highlight the importance of equal access to screenings, treatment and education in every community.
Small Steps That Make a Big Difference
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, but healthy habits can help lower risk:
- Stay active and maintain a healthy weight
- Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Limit alcohol
- Avoid smoking
- Get regular screenings and talk to your doctor about your personal risk
Standing Together
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than just a campaign — it’s a chance to support those affected and remind ourselves that early action saves lives. Whether it’s scheduling your own mammogram, encouraging a loved one to get checked, or supporting someone in treatment, every step matters.
Your health is worth prioritizing. Protect it, talk about it and never hesitate to reach out to your care team if you have questions. Together, we can turn awareness into lasting change.
