Health & Fitness
Go Pink to Raise Breast Cancer Awareness
When National Breast Cancer Awareness Month debuted in 1985, the goal was simply to increase early detection of a disease that claimed too many lives.
When National Breast Cancer Awareness Month debuted in 1985, the goal was simply to increase early detection of a disease that claimed too many lives.
Nearly 30 years later, this campaign has helped educate countless women and men about the benefits of screening mammograms and clinical breast exams, and has certainly helped save lives through early detection.
To witness the reach and success that the campaign has enjoyed, look no further than a professional football game during the month of October. It is a wonderful sight to see grown men outfitted in pink football equipment as a way of raising awareness about the benefits of early detection. Some of the nation’s most visible organizations have partnered with the American Cancer Society to remind women 40 and older about the importance of having an annual mammogram.
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Registration is still open for the Komen Maryland Race for the Cure on Sunday, October 23, 2011 in Hunt Valley. Register online and be sure to pick up your race T-shirt from walk-up registration at the old Filene's store in Hunt Valley Town Center or on Race day! Walk-up registration begins on Friday, October 14 and runs through Saturday, October 22.
Another great effort is the “Light Maryland Pink” campaign, which began in 2009. It has successfully spread the message of breast cancer awareness throughout the state of Maryland. Komen Maryland has reached out to Maryland counties, businesses, and landmarks and the response was overwhelming. A number of businesses, landmarks, and county buildings will be lit pink during October. Feel free to participate in this initiative by turning Baltimore pink during the month.
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All of these efforts are combining to make a tangible difference in the effects of breast cancer. Still, in 2011, it is estimated that among U.S. women, there will be 230,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer, and 39,520 breast cancer deaths. Take every step you can to advocate for early screening and remind others about the importance of breast cancer awareness.