The month of October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) in the United States. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the organization. In countries other than the U.S. it is referred to simply as “Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM)”. It is a national and international health campaign to increase people’s awareness of the terrible disease, while at the same time raising funds for the cause.

Breast cancer, also referred to as “malignant breast neoplasm” is a cancer that usually originates from the lobules or the milk ducts in a woman’s breast. It can originate in other breast tissue as well, and also in the breasts of males.

Breast cancer is very treatable if it is caught in the early stages. This is the reason the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends women between the ages of 50 and 74 have a mammography (also referred to as mamogram) done every 2 years. Most other medical experts suggest starting to get mammography screenings at the age of 40.

Currently there is no cure for breast cancer, or any specific means to prevent it. However there are ways to greatly reduce the risk of developing it. It is recommended that you live a healthy life that includes:
- Avoiding Smoking, or being around those that smoke.
- Limiting alcohol intake.
- Increasing the amount of fiber you get in your diet. This can be done by adding fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods to your daily food intake.
- Exercising, whether it be going to the gym, running, or simply taking a 30 minute daily walk.
- Limiting your daily fat consumption. This especially pertains to saturated fats, and trans fats. Omega 3 fat is not included.

During National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, you will see a lot of people walking around with pink ribbons attached to their clothing. This is a fund raising method by the organization to raise further funds for research, and the prevention of breast cancer.

You can find more information about breast cancer awareness as well as treatment, diagnosis, and other facts at nbcam.org.