Breast cancer is an efficient killer. In 2009, 23,200 women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 5,300 of them died from it. For males, the number of diagnosed cases was much lower at 180 but 50 of those were fatal. This is a disease that affects everyone and it's time to fight back.

Here are some of the risk factors for breast cancer (although having them does not mean you will get breast cancer):

·         Being a woman (99% of all cases are women)

·         Your risks increase as you get older

·         Breast cancer history (either yourself or family)

·         Early menstruation (before the age of 12)

·         Late menopause (after the age of 55)

·         Taking hormone replacement therapy

·         Delayed childbirth (after the age of 30 or none at all)

·         Never breastfed

·         Being over weight

As with any form of cancer, early detection is the key to surviving. Finding the cancer, early on when it is small, makes it easier to remove completely. Being proactive in your breast-screening program is vital. Examining yourself on a regular basis allows you to become more familiar with the normal look and feel of your breast, making it easier to detect anomalies in the future. Although self exams are important, they should in no way replace regular clinical check ups or mammograms.  Please download this breast self exam cardto further assist you.

Please visit the Breast Cancer Society of Canada to learn more about how you can donate, educate, participate, and celebrate.