10/09/2025
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month was founded in 1985 in partnership between the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries (now part of AstraZeneca, producer of several anti-breast cancer drugs). The aim of the NBCAM from the start has been to promote mammography as the most effective weapon in the fight against breast cancer.
A variety of events around the world are organized, mostly in October, including walks, runs, and the pink illumination of landmark buildings.
Male breast cancer, which is rare, is generally overlooked. In 2009 the male breast cancer advocacy groups Out of the Shadow of Pink, A Man's Pink, and the Brandon Greening Foundation for Breast Cancer in Men joined to globally establish the third week of October as "Male Breast Cancer Awareness Week
The main goals of Breast Cancer Awareness Month are to educate the public about the risks and warning signs of breast cancer, promote regular screenings like mammograms, raise funds for research to find a cure, and provide support and recognition for breast cancer survivors and their families. The international campaign, primarily observed in October and known for the iconic pink ribbon, aims to improve early detection rates, reduce mortality, and foster a community of support for those affected by the disease.
Why It Matters:
• Saving Lives: Increased awareness and early detection have contributed to a significant reduction in breast cancer deaths.
• Empowering Individuals: The initiative gives people the knowledge to take charge of their breast health and seek timely, quality care.
• Progress & Hope: Research funded through these efforts leads to new therapies and better outcomes, especially for those with more advanced forms of the disease.
Types of Breast Cancer
What are the Main Types of Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is a diverse group of diseases with several distinct types, each with its own characteristics and behaviors. No two persons will have the exact same breast cancer profile because the cancer is derived from each person’s unique genetic mutation.
1)Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) is considered the earliest form of breast cancer. DCIS is a non-invasive breast cancer where abnormal cells are found in the lining of a breast duct but have not spread outside the duct. It is often considered a precancerous condition.It is often detected during routine mammograms before any symptoms appear. This is why regular screening is crucial.
2)Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) is the most common type of breast cancer. IDC begins in the milk ducts but then breaks through the duct wall and invades the surrounding breast tissue. It can also spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. This is why it is referred to as invasive.
IDC is often detected through mammograms or physical exams, sometimes presenting as a lump in the breast. Symptoms can include changes in breast shape, skin dimpling, or ni**le discharge.
3)Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) originates in the lobules, which is the milk-producing glands of the breast. It has a tendency to spread in a single-file pattern, making it harder to detect through mammograms and potentially more challenging to treat. Symptoms might include thickening of an area in the breast, fullness, or changes in breast texture rather than a distinct lump.
4)Invasive Mucinous Carcinoma is a rare subtype of Invasive Ductal Carcinoma that is characterized by the presence of mucus-producing cancer cells. It tends to be less aggressive and is less likely to spread to the lymph nodes. Invasive mucinous carcinoma can be detected through mammograms or physical exams. It often presents as a soft, well-defined mass. Because of its mucin content, it may appear differently on imaging studies compared to other breast cancers.
5)Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) is a rare but aggressive form of breast cancer that usually presents with reddening and swelling of the skin rather than a distinctive mass. This type of breast cancer only accounts for 1% of all breast cancer cases in the United States.
6)Metastatic Breast Cancer occurs when cancer cells have spread beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes to other parts of the body (stage IV breast cancer). The common areas of metastasis are the brain, liver, bones, and lungs. Breast cancer cells spread from the original tumor through the bloodstream and the lymphatic system. Metastatic Breast Cancer is considered advanced and may not be curable, but it can be managed with various treatments to extend life and improve quality of life.
Let’s get checked and tell others to get checked as well. We are in this together
