As October rolls on, you may have realized this recurring theme of the color pink – from Sahuaro’s volleyball girls wearing pink bows to Ms. Evie dying her hair pink. But why? Well, the month of October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Here are some important things to know about breast cancer:

So, what even is cancer? Well, cancer begins in people’s cells, which are the body’s basic building blocks. Sometimes the cell growth process fails, and new cells form before the old cells can die off properly. When this happens, the cells build up and create a tumor. While 80% of tumors are benign, getting them checked for cancer is still HIGHLY recommended.

Breast cancer only occurs when malignant tumors form in the breast. These deadly cells can spread throughout the body if they break away from the initial tumor and work their way into the blood vessels, a network structure that carries blood throughout the tissues and organs. Doctors aim to catch the cancer early before the cells can spread.

Did you know 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer? According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 297,790 women and according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, an estimated 28,000 men have been diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Yes, you read that correctly. Although rare, men can be diagnosed with breast cancer! This is because men are born with some breast tissue, and that small amount of tissue is enough to harbor cancer.

Cancer only grows when a person’s DNA is damaged, but why or how it becomes damaged is still unknown to scientists, just like it is still not discerned whether or not cancer is caused by genetics or environmental factors.

So, for the month of October, show your support! You can show support by further educating yourself on breast cancer or donating to the National Breast Cancer Foundation and last but not least…WEAR PINK!