News from Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb
Albany Office:
LOB 725 • Albany, NY 12248 • 518-455-3979
District Office:
70 Elizabeth Blackwell St. • Geneva, NY 14456 • 315-781-2030
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Recognizing the Lives Affected by Breast Cancer

Column from Assembly Minority Leader Brian M. Kolb (R,C,I,Ref-Canandaigua)

Each year, the month of October is recognized as a time to raise awareness for those affected by breast cancer. In the United States, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. On a much larger scale, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among women worldwide. It is imperative to educate women (and men) about early detection which is the best way to ensure survival of this devastating disease and provide them with the necessary resources.

Self-exams are a key component of prevention and early detection. The majority of women diagnosed actually find the cancer themselves and not through mammograms. This is not to say mammograms are not important. In fact, women over the age of 40 should be screened every one or two years. Although far less common, men can also develop breast cancer. In the U.S., approximately 2,470 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.

LIVES TOUCHED, LIVES CELEBRATED

A reliable source of information and support in the Finger Lake’s Region is the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester. For anyone with questions about breast cancer, the coalition offers “31 Truths about Breast Cancer,”- a guide that includes facts, statistics, and helpful information about the disease.

On October 24, the Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester is sponsoring the 18th annual “Lives Touched, Lives Celebrated” event. This poignant celebration will include a candle light vigil, poetry readings, live music and community support for the families of those that have been affected by breast cancer.

MEN AGAINST BREAST CANCER

Men Against Breast Cancer (MABC) is a national non-profit organization that provides support and information for men caring for someone with breast cancer. A cancer diagnosis of a loved one can be a traumatic event. MABC offers a unique approach of focusing on supporting the whole family, with an emphasis on men as caregivers.

There is a silver lining; deaths caused by breast cancer have been on a decline since 1990 thanks to prevention programs, early detection and advances in treatment options available. Through fundraisers and awareness campaigns, we can hope that one day breast cancer will be a thing of the past.

What do you think? I want to hear from you. Send me your feedback, suggestions and ideas regarding this or any other issue facing New York State. You can always contact my district office at (315) 781-2030 or email me at kolbb@nyassembly.gov.