Breast Cancer Awareness
By Yarel Manjarrez
Breast Cancer Awareness Rally during South Gate’s Homecoming Football Game
Courtesy of Brynn Kan
October is known for its spooky season and Halloween spirit all month long. But, every month holds a special awareness to spread during it as well. Since the start of the 1980s, October has been the designated month to spread awareness for breast cancer. Ideally, these efforts are intended to help reduce cancer deaths by improving the understanding of risk factors and screenings. This also helps raise funding through spreading awareness.
Overview
As of 2025, about 316,950 women and 2,800 men are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. alone (Breastcancer.org). It’s a known fact that women are much more prone and likely to develop breast cancer due to reproductive, hormonal and genetic factors– especially because women typically have more breast‐tissue composition than men. The World Health Organization notes that about 99% of breast cancers occur in women (about 0.5–1% in men).
Risk Factors & Prevention
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, statistically, 1 in 8 women will have a lifetime risk of developing invasive breast cancer. Understanding your family history is an important factor in prevention and early intervention when it comes to breast cancer. A strong family history of breast cancer is indicative of higher risk factors, where routine screenings promptly help early detection.
Screenings
For those who are at average risk for breast cancer, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends mammograms every two years starting at around age 40 and onward. For higher-risk individuals (for instance, those with a strong family history, genetic mutations, or very dense breast tissue) screenings are recommended to start earlier, at age 30, with yearly MRI and mammogram screenings by a physician.
This standard practice of care significantly increases the chance of early detection, allowing cancers to be found before they spread outside the breast or progress more aggressively in the body.
2. Prevention
Besides assessing personal genetic factors and having routine screenings accordingly, there are ways to keep yourself healthier and less at risk for developing breast cancer. This includes but is not limited to:
Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity. Studies show physical activity can reduce breast cancer risk.
Avoiding smoking and nicotine in general.
Limiting alcohol intake. If you drink, do so in moderation– the less consumption, the better.
According to the American Cancer Society, death rates from breast cancer have been declining over recent decades, thanks to better screening, awareness and treatment. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimates the death rate for breast cancer among women in the United States dropped 44% from its peak in 1989 to 2022.
Understanding risk factors is especially important for high school students as they begin to make independent decisions about their health.
Ms. Valdez, South Gate’s new health teacher, explained, “It’s important for students to learn their family’s medical history, especially if breast cancer runs in their family.” This reminder highlights how crucial it is for young people to be aware of their personal health risks and take preventive measures early.
By creating an environment where students have access to accurate information, supportive resources, and guidance, schools can help them better assess their own risks and make informed choices. When students understand their family health background and have the tools to act on that knowledge, they are empowered to take control of their well-being now and in the future.