National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a program designed to educate and help women gain awareness about the threat of breast cancer.

NBCAM is observed each October and has been since 1985.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 211,240 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in the U.S. in 2005, and 40,410 women died from the disease.

If you’re worried about developing breast cancer, or if you know someone who has been diagnosed with the disease, one way to deal with your concerns is to get as much information as possible. It is important to recognize the many causes and possible reasons for breast cancer development.

Because early detection of breast cancer means that treatment is more likely to be successful, health professionals recommend that all women have a mammogram each year beginning at age 40. Those women who have a family history of the disease or other factors that put them at higher risk should talk with their doctors, as they may need more frequent or earlier screenings.

Catching breast cancer at an early stage is extremely important. By finding breast cancer early in its development, patients can greatly improve their chances of successful treatment.

Screening for breast cancer refers to tests and examinations used to detect the disease in women who do not have any symptoms. According to ACS, early detection of breast cancer saves many thousands of lives each year.

Some screening tests used for early detection of breast cancer include; mammography, clinical breast exams and monthly breast self-exam. For more information regarding breast cancer please visit www.getbcfacts.com.

Breast cancer or any cancer for that matter, is a serious issue. Therefore, I hope everyone will see this month as an opportunity to get examined, become educated or take some time to volunteer. We can all do our part to make a big impact.

Clyde Evans is a member of the Ohio House of Representatives and represents the 87th District.