King County Council Proclaims October Breast Cancer Awareness Month

The Metropolitan King Council Monday declared the month of October Breast Cancer Awareness Month in recognition of those who have survived the disease and to support those women and men battling breast cancer.

“The medical screening process is easy and fast and should be part of the regular health care routine for women older than 40,” said Councilmember Kathy Lambert. “Early diagnosis and treatment has proven effective in saving lives. At the annual Walk for the Cure, I was again impressed by the energy and support of so many people who participated with such dedication for loved ones who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. This disease no longer is the death sentence or taboo topic that is was for our grandparents, and that progress is the best reason to celebrate.”

Every two minutes, a woman in this country receives a diagnosis of breast cancer, making it the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women after skin cancer. More than 39,000 women are expected to succumb to the disease in 2011, as well as 450 men. But improved treatment has increased the chance of surviving breast cancer, as can be seen in the 2.5 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S.  

Early detection is still the first line of defense in fighting breast cancer, but screening rates are declining. A recent study revealed that among 1.5 million women over the age of 40 with health insurance, less than 50 percent received the recommended annual screening. 

The Puget Sound Affiliate of the Komen Foundation has invested nearly $23 million to fund local breast health education, screening and treatment support in Western Washington and for research to find the cures for breast cancer. 

“Because more than 50 percent of women with insurance are not being screened and underserved women still need screening assistance, our goal is less talk and more action, and get everyone involved to help save lives and find a cure for this disease,” said Komen Puget Sound Executive Director Cheryl Shaw. 

So along with celebrating the lives of those who have beaten the disease, and keeping people informed about the resources available to those who have just been diagnosed, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is also a reminder of the importance of annual mammograms and regular self examinations. 

Editor's Note: Information provided by the King County Council.