No, there is nothing wrong with your eyes, the site really is pink! That’s because October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and to help spread the word we’ve gone and turned everything pink.

Every year nearly 200,000 women and 1,700 men are diagnosed with breast cancer. Approximately 40,000 women and 450 men die each year and billions of others are effected through trickle down. To help you prevent becoming one of these statistics we’ve listed some facts every woman, and man!, should be aware of.

Get informed and stay healthy. Know the statistics: - While white women are more likely to get breast cancer, black women are more likely to die from it. - The majority of breast cancer cases involve woman over 50, but that doesn’t mean younger women are immune. - Smoking and alcohol have not been officially connected with breast cancer, but it it still believed that they are a factor in the growth of tumors. Besides, smocking is NOT attractive, despite what you may see on TV.

Self-examination leads to early detection. That’s a given. But did you know that early detection raises the 5 year survival rate by 96%? And it’s easy, too. The National Breast Cancer Foundation has included detailed instructions on the self-exam that anyone at any age can preform. Women and men of all ages should preform this simple monthly examination. It is also suggested that woman over 40 receive a mammogram with their yearly physical.

Did you know that men can also get breast cancer? It’s true! 1,700 men are diagnosed each year and 450 die. Sure, that doesn’t compare to the 200,000 women who get diagnosed, but men should still be concerned. Men can preform the same self-exam as women.

Get active and lower your chances. Exercise combined with a healthy, low fat diet full of fruits and vegetables can lower your risks of developing breast cancer. Studies have shown that as little as 4 hours of activity alone can lower your risks. Exercise and sports not only help keep your body slim and fit, they lower your estrogen levels which promotes tumor growth. Combine this with cruciferous greens such as broccoli and kale (also clinically shown to slow tumor growth) and your chances could be doubled!

Get involved and help find a cure. There are any number of organizations that are looking for donations and volunteers. NBCF, Komen, and Live Strong are just a few of reputable organizations that could use your help. You can also check with your local hospital and hospice for volunteer opportunities. Events such as the Komen 3 day are great ways to gear-up support and donation in your local community, so grab your mother, sister, or a friend and join when ever the possibilities arises!

See what communities around the word are doing to raise awareness.

• Breast cancer survivors prepare for ninth Healing Art Gallery
• SIFE, Walgreens team up to educate students about breast cancer
• Local teens to promote breast cancer awareness

Become Pink for October and have your site listed below. Have a personal site or blog? Join Pink for October then let us know and we’ll add your site to our list Gilded Pen readers who have gone pink.

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