1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. How to protect yourself, how to get involved, and how to make sure your contribution is helping.
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About 41,760 women in the U.S. are expected to die in 2019 from breast cancer, and while the numbers are falling, it’s still the second most prolific cancer in women after skin cancer.
Reducing the risk
Many women in the U.S. are genetically disposed to developing breast cancer, especially African Americans, and though there are always things that are out of our control, there are certain steps we can take to reduce risk. The Mayo Clinic offers guidelines, like maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol, and not smoking, but they also reinforce the need to be vigilant and have regular conversations with our doctors about our personal risk, and when to begin mammograms and other screenings.
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Recognizing ‘Pinkwashing’
Most of us know someone or have personally experienced the trials of cancer, and are deeply moved to act and support research and survivors. Unfortunately Breast Cancer Awareness fundraising and branded products have become a giant cottage industry over the past two decades, in some cases marketing efforts contribute little or no benefit to the cause, and in others they serve to shield products that might be part of the problem, --called ‘Pinkwashing’. For example, 3M corporation sells pink ribbon products, but also produces toxic ‘forever’ chemicals suspected in a variety of cancers, including PFAS (Polyfluoroalkyl Substances).
This shouldn’t be a reason to avoid an impassioned effort, only a reminder for us to take a moment to evaluate the methods and products that deserve our donations and patronage. Everydayhealth.com poses 3 questions we should ask before making a purchase or donation.
Does any money from this purchase actually go to support breast cancer research, awareness or support?
Does this purchase put you or someone you love at risk for exposure to toxins linked to breast cancer?
Do you agree with or want to support the specific organization this product or purchase is supporting? What do they do with their money?
Some well respected organizations and campaigns include:___________
When it’s personal
When someone close to us is fighting breast cancer, there’s so much we can do beyond pink ribbons to provide support and some of the necessities that are often neglected by the single-minded focus on beating the disease. There are also things we simply cannot do. For some tips on how to approach the subject and what kind of help is most appreciated, read our blog “Supporting Cancer Survivors Beyond Awareness Month”
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Like so many others, Xxxx & Xxxx has a personal connection with breast cancer that drives our advocacy. We hope all of these efforts lead to a breakthrough, and we wish for survivors to have the strength and support to keep fighting.