Women over the age of 40 should have a mammogram each year. Unfortunately, many don't. If they did, we could reduce the numbers of deaths associated with this terrible disease by more than 30%.
Hopefully someday we won't need a Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The way to work toward a reduction in the incidence of breast cancer is to ensure that every woman knows about it and takes the steps for prevention and early detection.
There are several important events taking place this month and next month in the Phoenix area:
On October 7, 2007 you can participate in City of Hope's Walk Against Breast Cancer. Registration begins at 6 a.m. Walk for Hope to Cure Breast Cancer is a family-oriented fitness and leisure walk and run to support breast cancer research and treatment at the City of Hope National Medical Center and Beckman Research Institute, a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. The event will take place at Salt River Project, 1600 N. Priest Drive in Phoenix. Parking is available at Phoenix Muni Stadium. Call 602-340-8871 for more information.
On October 14, 2007 the Komen Race For The Cure consists of a 1 Mile Family Fun Run/Walk, Early Start 5K Run for Breast Cancer Survivors, 5K Competitive Run (Timed), and 5K Non-competitive Run and 5K Walk in downtown Phoenix. The race route is different in 2007. It starts at Wesley Bolin Plaza and the Capitol Building. Registration begins at 6:30 a.m. Proceeds from the Komen Race for the Cure® help fund important breast cancer research as well as breast health initiatives on a local level. About 75% percent of net proceeds generated stays in Central and Northern Arizona while the remaining 25% goes to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Award and Research Grant Programs. Call 602-346-CURE (2873) for more information.
On November 14 - 16, 2008, during the Breast Cancer 3-Day, thousands of women and men will unite and walk 60 miles to honor those affected by breast cancer, and to raise money for research. Walk at your own pace, and stop whenever you feel you should. Call for more info (800) 996-3DAY. Looking to join a team? Check out Our Ladies of Perpetual H.O.P.E..
On November 17, 2007, the American Cancer Society will host an event at Tempe Beach Park. Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is a noncompetitive walk to raise awareness and dollars to fight breast cancer. Pledges are dedicated to life-saving American Cancer Society research, education, patient support, and advocacy programs to defeat the disease. The event begins at 7 a.m. For more information, call 602-224-0526.
In the spring, Tri For The Cure Arizona includes an adult sprint triathlon, an adult relay sprint triathlon, an adult sprint duathlon and a youth sprint triathlon. This an all women's event.
Arizona Breast Cancer Resources
Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization, Phoenix Office
Arizona Cancer Center at University of Arizona
Arizona Institute for Breast Health
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