About one in eight U.S. women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes, and this number increases nearly every year.
Because of this, October has been recognized worldwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Most people have heard of the Susan G Komen foundation, which has invested more than $2.1 billion to breast cancer research since its inception in 1982.
In fact, this year Komen is actively putting over $300 million into research across the country. Those who join the cause become “passionately pink” while having bake sales and “jean days” to help raise funds.
While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to get tested so they can detect the disease in its early stages and encourage others to do the same.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month has already been successful in spreading the word about breast cancer. Now, the main goal is to educate people about prevention and early detection.
This October, the Pink Ribbon Bagel will be sold at participating Panera Bread bakery-cafes nationwide, including the ones right here in Erie.
More than 8 million Pink Ribbon Bagels have been sold since 2001, and $1.3 million was donated to breast cancer charities.
On Oct. 3, the Perry Square fountain “went pink” in support of breast cancer awareness and will remain pink for the remainder of the month.
Other institutions around Erie have also done the same. The Lakers sported pink during Mercyhurst’s homecoming football game.
While most women will be diagnosed around the age of 40, women can get breast cancer as early as age 15. By the time breast cancer is diagnosed in younger women, it is often more advanced and therefore harder to treat.
This year, one in every 800 people ages 18-25 will be diagnosed with breast cancer. That’s the equivalent of five Mercyhurst students.