In October 1985, Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) began. The month was dedicated to raising awareness of breast cancer, raising funding and highlighting the importance of early detection and screening.
According to the American Cancer Society, 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer will appear in women, and around 42,250 women will die from breast cancer, making it the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women.
Since 1989, breast cancer deaths have declined steadily over time. Women are 44% more likely to survive now. A large reason for this is that women are encouraged to get mammograms at least once a year after they are 40 and there is more education on how to self-exam for any lumps and irregularities at home. There have also been many advancements in treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy
Early detection of breast cancer is very important to the success of treatment. Ductal carcinoma in situ, also known as stage 0 breast cancer, has the highest survival rate since the cancer has not spread yet.
Doane will be hosting the second annual Pink Out Volleyball game on Oct. 26 in Haddix. Students can participate by wearing pink to show support for the cause. The event will be a way for students to show their support to the thousands of people fighting this cancer every year.
