Why Breast Cancer Awareness Month Matters and How Your Participation Makes a Difference

Every October, there’s a good chance that you’ll start seeing a wave of pink ribbons, announcements about charity walks, and social media posts about breast cancer. But Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) is more than a sea of pink — it’s a powerful, global movement that focuses attention on one of the most common and life-altering diseases affecting women (and men) today.

So, what exactly is breast cancer and BCAM? Why is it such a big deal every year? And how can you be a part of it? 

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer happens when cells in the breast start to grow uncontrollably. Instead of functioning normally, these abnormal cells divide and multiply, eventually forming a lump or mass. If left untreated, the cancer can spread beyond the breast and affect other parts of the body.

What Is BCAM?

Every October, people observe BCAM to raise awareness about breast cancer, promote early detection, support those affected by the disease, and fund life-saving research.

It began in 1985 as a partnership between the American Cancer Society and a pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries. Since then, it has grown into a worldwide campaign that encourages education, screening, and action.

Why Breast Cancer Awareness Still Matters

You might be thinking: “Haven’t we been talking about this for years?” Yes — and that’s a good thing. But the conversation is far from over. Here’s why BCAM continues to be important:

  • Breast Cancer Is Still Common and Can Be Deadly

Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in the US, aside from skin cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer during their lifetime.

In 2025 alone, experts estimate that doctors will diagnose 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer in US women, and the disease will claim the lives of approximately 42,250 women.

Men aren’t immune, either. In 2025, doctors expect to diagnose about 2,790 cases of breast cancer in US men.

  • Early Detection Saves Lives

Catching breast cancer early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. When detected early, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99% for localized breast cancer.

That’s why mammograms and routine screenings are life-saving tools. BCAM encourages men and women to speak with their doctors about when to begin screenings based on their risk factors and age.

  • Awareness Reduces Stigma

For years, people whispered about breast cancer in hushed tones. BCAM has helped normalize open conversations about breast health, symptoms, risk factors, and body changes. It empowers people to speak up when something feels off.

  • Funding Research Brings Hope

Awareness efforts fuel funding for research, which leads to better treatments — and eventually, a cure. Organizations such as the National Breast Cancer Foundation and Susan G. Komen use October to fundraise and support patients in need.

How You Can Get Involved

You don’t need to be a medical professional, cancer researcher, or survivor to make a meaningful difference during BCAM. Small actions, especially when done collectively, can have a significant impact. Whether you want to honor a loved one, support ongoing research, or simply raise awareness, there are plenty of ways to get involved:

  • Wear Pink

It might seem simple, but wearing pink during October is a powerful way to show support. It sparks conversations, raises visibility, and reminds others to prioritize their breast health. Consider wearing a pink ribbon, pink clothing, or pink accessories to show solidarity and encourage others to do the same.

  • Schedule a Screening

One of the most effective ways to fight breast cancer is through early detection. If you’re due for a mammogram or breast exam, don’t wait — schedule it. And if someone you love has been putting it off, gently encourage them to make an appointment. Taking action for your health sets a powerful example.

  • Join a Fundraiser

Fundraising events — such as walks, runs, and community challenges — help fund breast cancer research, education, and patient support programs. You can sign up for a local or virtual event, donate to a cause you believe in, or even host a fundraiser through your school, workplace, or social media network.

  • Share Stories and Information

Talk about it. Share personal stories or educational resources on social media, in group chats, or during everyday conversations. The more we talk about breast cancer, the more we reduce stigma and spread life-saving knowledge about signs, symptoms, and risk factors.

  • Learn, Listen, and Support

If someone in your life has been affected by breast cancer, take time to listen and show up for them, whether they’re going through treatment, celebrating survivorship, or grieving a loss. Your support means more than you may realize. Sometimes, just being present is the most impactful thing you can do.

Protect Yourself and Those You Love

BCAM is about more than ribbons and hashtags. It’s a reminder to take our health seriously, to check in on our loved ones, and to keep fighting for better outcomes and better access to care.

Whether you’re a survivor, a caregiver, a supporter, or someone just learning about breast health, your voice and your actions matter.

At MyAlly Health, we understand the importance of promoting BCAM and limiting your risk of developing breast cancer. We offer annual wellness examinations that include a breast exam to check for lumps or other signs of breast cancer. If you’d like to schedule an appointment for an exam, contact us today!

Additionally, we offer physicals and mental health screenings to promote your overall health. You can also receive examinations such as Pap smears to test for cervical cancer and Gardasil vaccinations to protect you from HPV infections.

MyAlly Health also provides confidential reproductive health services to women and men in the Grand Forks, North Dakota, area, regardless of income or age. These services include offering preventive care, such as STI testing, breast examinations, and pelvic examinations, and determining the best birth control for you. Our clinical services are all performed by nurse practitioners and resident physicians.

MyAlly Health provides education, counseling, advocacy, and healthcare services to empower and engage individuals in their overall well-being and reproductive health. Find out more about what we do, help make a difference by donating to our cause, or schedule an appointment with us today.

This October, remember, every gesture counts — whether you’re starting a conversation, taking care of your health, or helping fund critical research. Together, we can raise awareness, inspire action, and save lives.

Let this October be more than just a month of pink — let it be a month of purpose.