Many of us see the pink ribbons, pink clothing, athletes wearing pink at sports events, or know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. But how much does the average person know about one of the deadliest cancers in the United States?

Even with medical and technological advances, this disease impacts the lives of more people each year. The American Cancer Society estimates there have been 232,340 new cases of breast cancer in 2013, which is more than double the next cancer type for women.

Although it can impact men and women, according the Susan G. Komen organization, women are more than 100 times more likely to face breast cancer than men.

We commend all organizations that are proactive in providing information and instruction on various diseases like The Cause organization and representatives from Cabell-Huntington Breast Center who will hold a luncheon at the First Baptist Church in Burlington on Saturday to raise awareness.

Any disease, regardless of the type, can have a severe impact on individuals, families, and our society as a whole. Increased knowledge and preventive measures can make a big difference until a cure can be found to overcome these diseases.