Regardless of gender or gender identity, breast cancer affects us all. 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer within her lifetime. Although it is rare, men get breast cancer too. It’s probable that you or someone you know has been personally affected by breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Fast Facts
- This year, an estimated 43,600 women will die from breast cancer in the U.S.
- In 2021, an estimated 2,650 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year in the U.S. and approximately 530 will die.
- A man’s lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 1 in 1,000.
- In the US, there are more than 3.5 million breast cancer survivors–which is the largest group of cancer survivors.
Detection & Prevention
Women who get regular screenings for breast cancer have a 47% lower risk of dying from the disease compared to those who don’t. Self-examination and regularly getting screened are the key to early detection and prevention.
There are several risk factors that you cannot change, such as having a history of breast cancer within your family or having larger breasts. Luckily, there are a few things that you can start doing now, as a college-aged person to help reduce your risk:
- Screening early and regularly
- Be physically active
- Stay in shape and maintain a healthy figure later in life
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- Have a healthy reproductive history
Showing Support
There are several ways to show support for those who are affected by breast cancer.
- Support Breast Cancer Research by donating and spreading the word about fundraising opportunities.
- Participate in a Breast Cancer 5K
- Offer practical and emotional support to those in your life who suffer from breast cancer.
- Keep in contact and let them know you care.
- Ask how you can help them, don’t make assumptions.
It’s important to be there for the loved ones in our lives, no matter how unsure you might be of your role or how you can help.
– Lydia Velishek ’23
