KSLA News 12 Shreveport, Louisiana News Weather & SportsOct. 5 Guest Editorial: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Oct. 5 Guest Editorial: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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Our vision, a world without Breast Cancer. It can happen, it will happen. As we fully embrace the month of October, the cool weather, the leaves falling, and the excitement of the upcoming holidays, may we not forget about the real importance of this month.

With Breast Cancer in the spotlight, you may be hearing about the most popular statistics; one in eight women will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer in their lifetime. 230,000 women will be diagnosed with Breast Cancer in 2011, but what does it all really mean?

Why is it so important to know your risk and to know what you can do to save your life?

We have come to know that there is a dire need for Breast Cancer initiatives in Northwest Louisiana. In the 10 parishes of Northwest LA served by Susan G. Komen for the cure, cancer deaths are above national and state norms.

In the rural areas of Caddo Parish, there are some of the highest Breast Cancer incidence and mortality rates in our state. This is why it is so important for less talk and more action.

Start by knowing your risk. Get screened. Know what is normal for you and make healthy lifestyle choices. These are all things we can start making a priority this month.

Today, there are over 2.5 million Breast Cancer survivors in the United States. We are making progress. We are keeping our promise to save lives and end Breast Cancer forever.

I'm Lindsay Dean with Susan G. Komen for the cure.