Breast cancer is a critical health problem likely to occur in 1 out of every 8 women. Although less often according to the American Cancer Society, it can also occur in men.

Advances in breast cancer care

The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) created the website, CancerProgress.Net in 2011, the year of the 40^th anniversary of the National Cancer Act of 1971. The site highlights a timeline of advances in screening, treatment and prevention, noting that:

Nine out of ten women with breast cancer are alive five years after their diagnosis, and breast cancer mortality has fallen by more than a third since its peak in the 1980s.

ASCO points to early detection as a critical factor. Regular screenings by various techniques have made it possible in over 90 percent of cancer diagnoses.

Surgeries are less invasive than when radical mastectomies were introduced in 1894; improved drug and radiation therapies and advocacy contribute to steady progress although much work and research remains to be done.

Advocacy Groups

The National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF). Janelle Hail, a cancer survivor, established the Foundation in 1991 to “help women around the world by educating them about breast cancer and the importance of early detection.”

NBCF provides free mammograms for women in all 50 states through its hospital network paid for with tax-deductible donations (online link here) of $100 each, which is the average cost of screenings.

• NBCF Events in Missouri

5K Run/Walk for a Cure in Maysville, Mo., Saturday morning, October 17, 2015.

In Poplar Bluff, Mo. at noon on Friday, October 23, 2015, is American Legion Post 153 Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser with food, drink and entertainment. All proceeds will go to the National Breast Cancer Fund.

Later, at 5 p.m. the same day in O’Fallon, Mo. is the Chiropractic Wellness Connection Women’s Night Out. Details and registration information here.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is part of the American Cancer Society that sponsors individuals or teams of walkers comprised of all ages and professional levels. Walkers sign up for three to five-mile walks in more than 300 communities around the country. Donors sponsor individuals, teams or contribute to costs of an event.

Making Strides also accepts online general donations, matching gifts and planned giving.

• Making Strides Events in Missouri – All on Saturday, October 24, 2015

Making Strides of Kansas City – 9 a.m., Crown Center

Making Strides of Southwest Mo – 9 a.m., Hammons Field Promenade, Springfield, Mo.

Making Strides of St. Louis – 9 a.m., Forest Park