This year, 180,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer.  Successful treatment benefits from early detection.  21 years ago, The American Cancer Society dubbed October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, starting a campaign to raise awareness, push for better treatments, increase testing, and save lives.  Since 1991, the rate of death from this disease has dropped significantly.  However, each year, breast cancer will still claim the lives of over 40,000 women.  Comprehension of the disease, as well as pro-action, will ensure that Breast Cancer Awareness Month continues to save lives.  And while it is generally accepted that this disease affects only women, 1,600 men will contract breast cancer this year.

Breast cancer has been around for centuries, and it was in the mid-1800’s that surgeons began to keep records of the disease.  It wasn’t until the 1950’s that treatments began to emerge, discerning the various stages of the disease.  Using four stages to describe the spread of the disease, patient outlooks began to take form, and classification was predicted based upon medical signs.  Patient survival rates increased dramatically.  In 1975, scientists discovered that certain genes within body cells became abnormal, which did not present a specific cause for cancer, but did explain its development.  According to the Breast Cancer Society of Canada, “…scientists have since identified approximately 70 genes that can spur cancerous growths and at least a dozen genes that should deter such growth but do not.”

Although Breast Cancer is uncommon in women in their twenties, the incidence increases throughout the thirties and reaches its plateau at around age 45, increasing dramatically after 50.  Research by the National Breast Cancer Foundation indicates that 50 percent of women diagnosed with the disease are over the age of 65, reiterating the need for screening throughout their lifetime.

As part of Tessie’s Serenity SPA’s dedication to helping fight breast cancer, clients are encouraged to screen regularly.  Yearly mammograms are clinically recommended for women in their forties, while clinical breast exams should be performed routinely every 2 to 3 years.  Clients are offered $10 off an hour massage with proof of a clinical breast exam. For any one hour service at Tessie’s Serenity SPA, five dollars will be donated to the American Cancer Society through October 31st.

Local residents interested in taking action to raise awareness can participate in the Breast Cancer 3-Day, a 60-mile walk for both men and women which helps to raise millions of dollars for research and patient programs.  Local dates include October 14-6 in San Diego, and October 21-23 in Arizona.  Those looking to get involved should contact www.the3day.org for more information.