October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Since BCAM began in 1985, mammography rates have more than doubled for women age 50 and older, and breast cancer deaths have declined. Councilmember Floreen, a breast cancer survivor, says that is something to celebrate, especially since one in eight women in the United States (12 percent) will develop invasive breast cancer at some point in her life.
More than 600 Montgomery County women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. Although Montgomery has the highest incidence of breast cancer in the state, it also has the lowest mortality rate. That is due in part to the fact that approximately 2,500 uninsured women receive free mammograms in Montgomery County.
“Montgomery County is fortunate to have many partners across various disciplines that not only raise awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer, but also provide medical and support services to those who have been diagnosed with the disease,” said Councilmember Floreen. “This month, we honor those providers and show our support for the mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts and friends who have been affected by breast cancer.”
