October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Chances are, you know someone who is either dealing with breast cancer or has in the past. Breast cancer has touched the lives of many Prime Advertising & Design employees in one way or another. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, one in eight women in the U.S. will face a breast cancer diagnosis in her lifetime. Breast cancer in men is considered rare, but 440 men die from it each year. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed form of cancer for women, and the second leading cause of death for women.

Every thirteen minutes, a woman dies of breast cancer.

That staggering number is one of the many reasons that Breast Cancer Awareness Month is so important. Each year during the month of October, numerous organizations and corporations offer educational opportunities and events to increase awareness of this deadly and prevalent disease. Resources and information are available to learn about genetic and environmental risk factors, prevention, treatment, and the importance of early detection. When detected early, the chances of surviving breast cancer are much greater.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month supporters are easily recognized by the color pink and pink ribbons. The White House was lit up pink on Thursday, October 21, and the I-35W Bridge in Minneapolis went pink for Breast Cancer Awareness on Monday, October 3. There are many events throughout the state to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research.

The NFL has teamed up with the American Cancer Association for A Crucial Catch Day, when underserved, grant-funded communities offer low- or no-cost breast cancer screenings. This year, A Crucial Catch falls on Tuesday, October 25, 2016. Since 2009, A Crucial Catch campaign has raised nearly $15 million for the American Cancer Society, the majority of which comes from the sale of NFL Pink merchandise. Each year, the Minnesota Vikings host a Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon and participate in other events around the Twin Cities to raise awareness.

The National Breast Cancer Foundation is offering a free ebook, What Every Woman Needs to Know, during the month of October, to educate and empower women to be proactive about their health. The book includes information and resources to create a breast health plan and to prepare for a screening appointment.

We encourage you to take time to learn more about breast cancer prevention and detection.