Breast Cancer is estimated to affect one in every eight women in the US through their adult lifetime—and more than 250,000 new cases are diagnosed every year

Breast Cancer, when caught early, has a high level of treatment and recovery. Modern medical technologies and knowledge have been able to reduce the mortality rate considerably, but the disease still remains a threat to adult women in the United States and the rest of the world.

While no cure for breast cancer is yet available, it is important to maintain the awareness—not just in October—to help everyone become informed about the threat. And since knowledge is power, everyone should do their part in remaining in-the-know.

Breast cancer statistics from Cancer.net state that over 40,000 women die from breast cancer every year. These are truly unnecessary with today’s medical advancement in detection and prevention of breast cancer—but we are putting an end to this ignorance right now.

Start by becoming aware of the tell-tale symptoms of breast cancer, who is at risk, and how you can discuss it with friends and loved ones. At the same time, learn about how breast cancer can be prevented and treated to increase the survival rate of patients diagnosed with this disease.

Here are a number of ways in which you can get involved in supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month during October—and throughout the rest of the year. Here are some organizations and initiatives to help you increase your own awareness:

• Breast Cancer Statistics: cancer.net/cancer-types/breast-cancer/statistics
• The National Breast Cancer Foundation: nationalbreastcancer.org
• Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation: komen.org
• Susan G Komen Central Florida: komencentralflorida.org
• Avon’s Breast Cancer Crusade: avonfoundation.org/programs/breast-cancer

This is not a comprehensive list, since there are many more local Breast Cancer Awareness organizations, foundations and initiatives in your local area.

We encourage everyone to volunteer or participate during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month events and fundraisers. And whenever possible, make a charitable contribution to the research and prevention of the disease.

Like any other ailment that is being actively researched, a cure is not the only goal. It is important to focus on the treatment as a way to reduce the aggressive nature of breast cancer and to increase the chances of remission.

Spread the word, share on social media and keep breast cancer awareness growing throughout the month of October!