How ACS is Impacting Breast Cancer

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Did you know that there are TWO MILLION breast cancer survivors living in the United States today? While breast cancer deaths are declining thanks to early detection and better treatments, more than 212,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and nearly 41,000 will die from the disease in 2006.
The best defense against breast cancer is to detect it as early as possible, when it is easier to treat. Thanks to mammograms and new treatments, the five year survival rate for breast cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body has increased from 80% in the 1950’s to 98% today. The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms for women 40 and older.

Throughout October, please help educate your family, friends and coworkers about the importance of breast health as it relates to cancer prevention and early detection.

How The American Cancer Society* Is Impacting Breast Cancer

Funding Groundbreaking Research: Over time, the Society has invested more in breast cancer research than any other voluntary public health organization. Since 1972, the Society has funded more than $290 million in breast cancer research grants, resulting in the development of many of today’s breast cancer treatments.

Advocating For Access To Mammograms For All Women: The Society advocates for important public policies and programs to ensure all women have access to breast cancer screening tests and care, regardless of their ability to pay.

Educating Women About Prevention and Early Detection: The Society educates women about the importance of early detection and following recommended breast cancer screening guidelines through its many educational programs. At www.cancer.org, women can sign up for a free mammogram reminder that will be e mailed to them each year so they won't forget to schedule their yearly mammogram.

Improving the Quality of Life for Breast Cancer Patients and Their Families: The Society empowers breast cancer patients and survivors and provides support through fee programs such as Reach to Recovery, Look Good ... Feel Better, and the Cancer Survivors Network.

Mission Statement:

*The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.