Here's a number worth sharing this month: when breast cancer is caught early, the 5-year survival rate is over 99%. That's what awareness is really about. Check, schedule, and speak up.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this year we wanted to share more than a pink ribbon. Below you'll find the numbers that matter, simple ways to stay on top of your own health (yes, men too), what current screening guidelines say, and organizations doing real work in research and support.
Breast Cancer by the Numbers
Breast cancer is common, but it's also one of the cancers where early detection makes the biggest difference. Here's where things stand in 2026, according to the American Cancer Society:
About 1 in 8 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.
321,910 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected in women this year, plus 60,730 cases of DCIS, an early, noninvasive form.
42,140 women are expected to die from breast cancer in 2026.
Breast cancer deaths in women dropped 44% from 1989 through 2022, thanks largely to screening and better treatment.
Over 99% is the 5-year relative survival rate when breast cancer is caught at an early, localized stage. About 66% of cases are found at that stage.
More than 4 million breast cancer survivors are living in the U.S. today.
Yes, men get breast cancer too
It's rare, but it happens. The ACS estimates about 2,670 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2026, and about 530 will die from it. A man's lifetime risk is about 1 in 755. Because most men don't expect it, it's often found later, which is why awareness matters for everyone.
Know Your Normal: Self-Exams for Women and Men
You know your body better than anyone. Many breast cancers are first found by the person themselves, which is why getting to know your normal matters so much.
Today, groups like the American Cancer Society call this breast self-awareness. Rather than a strict monthly routine, the goal is to know how your breasts or chest normally look and feel, so a change stands out. A regular self-check, in the shower or getting dressed, is an easy way to build that habit.
Changes worth a call to your doctor
A new lump or thickening in the breast, chest, or underarm
Swelling of all or part of the breast
Skin dimpling, puckering, redness, or flaking
A nipple that turns inward, or discharge other than breast milk
Breast or nipple pain that doesn't go away
Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone
For the men reading this
The same signs apply. In men, the most common sign is a lump or swelling, often painless, under or near the nipple. If you notice something, don't wait it out or assume it's nothing. Get it checked. Most breast changes turn out not to be cancer. But the only way to know is to have a doctor take a look.
Mammograms: When and How Often
Mammograms are the most proven tool for catching breast cancer early, often before a lump can be felt. According to the CDC, women ages 50 to 74 who get a mammogram every two years have a 26% lower risk of dying from breast cancer than women who don't get screened.
How often to go depends a bit on who you ask. Here's what the major guidelines say for women at average risk:
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force: every 2 years, from age 40 through 74
American Cancer Society: option to start yearly at 40, yearly from 45 to 54, then every 1 to 2 years
American College of Radiology: every year, starting at 40
The common thread: start the conversation with your doctor by 40. Many women choose yearly mammograms, and your doctor can help you decide what's right for you.
If you have a family history of breast cancer, a known gene mutation like BRCA, or dense breast tissue, your doctor may recommend starting earlier or adding an MRI or ultrasound. Routine mammograms aren't recommended for men at average risk, but men with a strong family history or a BRCA mutation should ask their doctor about screening.
Simple tip: tie your mammogram to a date you'll remember, like your birthday month, so it never slips.
Everyday Habits That Lower Your Risk
Some risk factors, like age and genetics, are out of your control. Others aren't. These habits are linked to a lower risk of breast cancer:
Stay active. Regular exercise is one of the simplest ways to lower risk. A walk along the coast counts.
Maintain a healthy weight, especially after menopause.
Limit alcohol. Risk goes up with the amount you drink.
Know your family history. Talk to relatives on both sides of the family, then share what you learn with your doctor. A strong family history may mean earlier screening or genetic counseling.
Ask about hormone therapy. If you're considering hormone therapy for menopause symptoms, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits.
These habits don't guarantee anything, but together they put the odds more in your favor.
Organizations Making a Difference
Whether you want to donate, volunteer, or find support for yourself or someone you love, these organizations are doing real work.
National research and support
American Cancer Society: research funding, patient support programs, and a 24/7 cancer helpline
Breast Cancer Research Foundation: funds breast cancer research worldwide
Susan G. Komen: research, a free Breast Care Helpline, patient navigation, and financial assistance
National Breast Cancer Foundation: early detection education and help accessing screenings
Closer to home
Susan G. Komen San Diego: local programs and the annual MORE THAN PINK Walk in Balboa Park
Many Shades of Pink: a San Diego group offering support groups and events, with a focus on women of color
UC San Diego Moores Cancer Center: comprehensive breast cancer care and research in La Jolla
Every Woman Counts: California's program offering free mammograms to eligible women
One Small Step This Month
Awareness only matters if it leads to action. So pick one thing this October: book the mammogram you've been putting off, do a quick self-check, or send this post to someone you love, including the men in your life.
From all of us at Colucci & Co. Realty Group, thank you to the survivors, caregivers, doctors, and researchers in our community who make this fight a little lighter for everyone.
