October is doubly important; not only is it Pilipino American Heritage Month, but it's also National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Breast Cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer that women get, and don't forget that a significant number of men suffer from it as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control website, it is the second most common cause of death in Asian/Pacific Islander women. Pilipinas reportedly have the highest death rate from breast cancer compared to any other Asian American group.
Years of research shows that the risk of breast cancer among Asian/Pacific Islander women may be higher than that of white women. There are discrepancies in the data since they are less likely to be tested than their peers, even as they advance in age.
While it's being determined which racial group is most affected by breast cancer (because of misreports and lack of data), the bottom line is that cancer does not discriminate - it affects everyone.
Some reports have shown that women will often start screening for the disease after being told by family member, or hear that someone they know gets regular mammograms. So tell everyone you know - especially your mom, lolas, sisters, titas, and friends - to become familiar with breast cancer screening and detection.
