We recently participated in the 6th Annual Pink Ribbons for Life event in our hometown of Orlando, Florida. It was held by The Chrome Angels of Central Florida, an independent motorcycle riding association made up of women brought together by their love of riding and their desire to make a positive impact in the community. Their primary goal is to support breast cancer research and to help victims. Sunday, January 18th at 11:30 in the morning, hundreds of bikers on an array of different motorcycles spilled into the parking lot. They came in shifts that began at 4 seperate…

It can be hard to put into words the impact breast cancer has had on so many.  With that said, Tyce Diorio, a choreographer from So You Think You Can Dance put together a powerful dance piece displaying the impact it’s had on him.  It’s incredibly touching, and dancers Melissa and Ade performed it beautifully commanding your attention to this very hard-hitting topic. Enjoy! (…and don't forget your tissues)…

It’s finally October!  Here at Know Cancer, it’s a time of year that gives us great pleasure to be able to help bring awareness to the most common type of cancer in women – breast cancer. Public awareness of this particular cancer is very important, given its prevalence among women, and keeping in mind that the earlier the detection the better chance one has of becoming a survivor.  So…be sure to find a cancer screening service in your area and get those regular mammograms! There’s a lot going on this month in similar efforts to bring about awareness to…

There’s no doubt that social media has been on the upswing these days. Social media enables millions worldwide to connect with each other and share their lives with one another. Following closely along with the trend towards tech-oriented media and networking, are many efforts in the cancer community to raise awareness (and funds) in the quest for a cancer-free world. Breast Cancer organizations such as the Breast Cancer Fund are able to tap into the social media scene to get people directly involved in their efforts, generating funding for mammograms for women. Many other cancer organizations are using similar methods…

Though we are nearing the end of October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, there are still many women that will be given the hard news of breast cancer this year. Although breast cancer has many risk factors associated which can increase your chances, it can appear shockingly to many across the spectrum regardless of health, race, or income. Though there are things you can do to lower your chances of breast cancer, getting a regular breast screening is the best way to catch it at its most treatable stages. Indeed, many women have lived through breast cancer, and use…

In the last two decades, breast cancer screening with mammography exams has reduced the number of deaths from the disease by one-third. Still, there has recently been confusion over when women should begin screening (age 40? 50?), and some women aren’t undergoing routine testing at all. In sorting fact from fiction, here are five things every woman should know about this very important—and life-saving—diagnostic test. 1. Don’t wait. According to the American Cancer Society, women should begin annual mammography exams at the age of 40. Yearly testing should continue until the age of 70. 2. Go to a specialist. Certain…

In the last two decades, breast cancer screening with mammography exams has reduced the number of deaths from the disease by one-third. Still, there has recently been confusion over when women should begin screening (age 40? 50?), and some women aren’t undergoing routine testing at all. In sorting fact from fiction, here are five things every woman should know about this very important—and life-saving—diagnostic test. 1. Don’t wait According to the American Cancer Society, women should begin annual mammography exams at the age of 40. Yearly testing should continue until the age of 70. 2. Go to a specialist Certain…

In September, Congress declared the last week of the month as National Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Week. The resolution was sponsored by Representative—and breast cancer survivor—Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D, Fl.) who testified before Congress that “knowledge is power” when it comes to breast and ovarian cancer. “Hopefully, the resolution that we have today will raise awareness so that we can continue to catch more cancer earlier, so that we can have more survivors,” Wasserman Schultz said. Along with increasing the awareness of hereditary cancer, the week also includes National Previvor Day. Previvors are women who understand the risk …

So often, my life has seemed to move in fast forward.  One minute I’m graduating college. The next I’m getting married and buying a house and starting a career. Now I’m quaking as I bring my first baby home from the hospital. Before I know it, I’m putting that same child on the school bus for her first day of school. Bang, zoom, zip.  All I can do is try to grab memories as they fly past, stuff them in my pocket and hope like hell they’ll still be there when things slow down and I have a moment to…

When my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer last year I was amazed that the doctor called her at her office, during work hours, to tell her the news. I guess I thought these things were told to you in person, maybe with the support of a family member or friend by your side. I was even more surprised when we went to meet with him and he called her cancer “garden variety breast cancer”. I suppose that’s a good thing, but when you think of your mother and cancer, “garden variety” are not the next words you expect to…

As someone who made her living for many years as the sexy (although ditzy) daughter of Al Bundy on Married With Children, Christina Applegate knew as well as any actress the pressures to look good in Hollywood. Yet when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 she decided rather quickly to have a double mastectomy. Her mother had also suffered from cancer and Christina inherited the BRCA1 mutation. Christina had a tough decision to make, but she rightly put her health above any Hollywood standards regarding her looks. The decision for any celebrity to come out about their cancer…

Phil Mickelson, the famous left-handed golf champion, has a number of impressive titles: winner of four major golf championships and the winner of 39 PGA events. But he also has another more impressive title: a cancer supporter. Rewind the clock a couple years when Phil’s wife, Amy, was diagnosed with the shocking news of her breast cancer in May, 2009. More shocking: only six weeks later, Phil’s mom, Mary, was also diagnosed with breast cancer. While prayers and support were being sent out in abundance for Amy and Mary, it became evident that Phil’s world was rocked, too. To…

With National Breast Cancer Awareness Month coming up in October, we wanted to ignite a meaningful initiative to raise money for Breast Cancer in a local community…and that’s exactly what we’ve done! We proudly introduce to you the “Sketchy Pink” initiative! A partnership between Know Cancer and Sketchy Miami that will use caricature drawings to pay homage to local Miami breast cancer fighters and raise money for University of Miami’s, Braman Family Breast Cancer Institute. Sketchy Miami Sketchy Miami is an online art project that aims to connect Miami artists and the general public through portraiture. It’s a simple process:…

Did you know October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month? Yup, it’s that time of year again! We’d like to share some steps you can take toward preventing breast cancer as well as some research about diagnosis, staging, treatment and survivorship. Tips for Breast Cancer Prevention Limit alcohol intake Maintain a healthy weight by eating well and exercising Breast feed your child Discontinue hormone therapy Avoid exposure to environmental pollution Examine yourself and consult a doctor about any irregularities (lumps or skin changes). Tips for Early Detection of Breast Cancer Try to catch it early before symptoms occur. If the…

Pink, Pink, Pink! Throughout October, You may find Pink Ribbons all over (yogurt boxes, t-shirts, hats, bagels..) to represent Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Let’s help you learn a little bit of information behind this widespread form of cancer. Types of Breast Cancer There are two main types of breast cancer: Ductal carcinoma – starts in the tubes or ducts. Lobular carcinoma – starts in the parts of the breasts, called lobules, that produce milk. Breast Cancer can be invasive or noninvasive. Invasive – it has spread from the milk duct to other tissues in the breast. Noninvasive – it…

As most of us already know, October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month! This month will be filled with a whole lot of emotion, support, awareness and PINK! The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) Organization The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month Organization is working together with other national organizations to promote breast cancer awareness, share information on the disease, and provide greater access to screening services. Their primary mission is to encourage women to get periodic mammograms. The organization celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2009 and continues to spread the word about breast cancer. While October is recognized…

You may know that it is very important for every woman to get screened for breast cancer. However, do you know what all a mammogram entails? Is it a word you are familiar with or is it just another breast cancer word tossed around? Well, here are some great Mammogram and Breast Cancer Screening Facts. What is a Mammogram? A mammogram is simply an x-ray picture of the breast. They can be used to check breast cancer in women who have no signs or symptoms of the disease. Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early…

As we come to a close of Breast Cancer Awareness Month here in October, we like to take a look at different breast cancer organizations that held events throughout October. Breast Cancer Organizations come in all different sizes and from all over the globe. Lets take a look at the 5 breast cancer organizations you have probably never heard of. Mothers Supporting Daughters with Breast Cancer (MSDBC) A mother is someone who is there for you, through thick and thin, and always trying to protect you from anything that could hurt you. When a woman is struck with breast cancer,…

Could we one day see a vaccine for certain types of cancer? Those at the Laboratory of Tumor Immunology and Biology, Center for Cancer Research at the National Cancer Institute are hoping so! Here’s the quick abstract: Purpose: PANVAC is a recombinant poxviral vaccine that contains transgenes for MUC-1, CEA, and 3 T-cell costimulatory molecules. This study was conducted to obtain preliminary evidence of clinical response in metastatic breast and ovarian cancer patients. You can read an overview of the results here. Monthly shots of a cancer vaccine produced encouraging results in a small, very early trial of 26…

Scientists have long understood the importance of the mitochondria, a membrane-enclosed organelle found in most eukaryotic cells. Now, the science community is now recognizing the mitochondria as the new Achilles heel of breast cancer. Studies are showing that there are now some new goals in dealing with breast, and other types of tumors. The mitochondria are responsible for producing energy in cells. This works in a negative fashion when discussing cancer cells, because their power is amplified by up to 5 times the capacity of normal cells. Says Dr. Michael Lisanti, of the Thomas Jefferson University in…

As we reported earlier this week, the science community is buzzing with joy over some new findings regarding breast cancer. A new drug developed by Genetech called Pertuzumab, significantly delays the worsening of breast cancer within most women. The study was conducted around the world, and represents the greatest advances in breast cancer treatment in over 10 years. Dr. Sandra Swain, one of the leaders of the study and Medical Director of the Cancer Center at Washington Hospital, said “”You don’t see that very often. … It’s a spectacular result.” A similar study was put on by Novartis regarding…

Amy Mickelson, the wife of three-time golf champion Phil Mickelson, a supporter and friend to many, and mom of three has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. Sports fans all over the world are saddened by this news and Mickelson puts the rest of his PGA tour on hold.  According to an article on the ESPN website, Sarah Strange, a breast cancer survivor and wife of former Ryder Cup captain Curtis Strange, said "Amy Mickelson's outgoing personality would play a big part in her recovery. She's such an upbeat person, and I think she'll approach this in the same…

The past couple of months have been rough for pro golfer Phil Mickelson and his family. As of earlier this week bad news has struck again, not only has Mickelson’s wife Amy been diagnosed with breast cancer, Mickelson’s mother, Mary, has been diagnosed with breast cancer as well. According to the Examiner, “Phil's sister Tina reported the news to the San Diego Union-Tribune.  Tina told the paper that she wished for the news of her mother to be made known so that Mary could receive the same prayers and support that Amy did from the players and fans…

As most of us already know, October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Pink Ribbons are everywhere! So…we decided to try and provide a little context to what this whole breast cancer hullabaloo is about. ('cause its not just an excuse to say "boobies" and "tatas" !!)…

In 2002 Stephanie Tesorioro walked into the Carol Baldwin Breast Cancer Center complaining of a lump in her breast. It was there that Ms. Tesorioro was told that, regarding the lump in her breast, everything was okay. According to Ms. Tesorioro’s attorney, Dr. Fisher missed mammography abnormalities, and did not conduct the relevant sonography of the area where the lump was being reported. It was following this experience at the center that Ms. Tesorioro missed the chance to have her cancer diagnosed. Sixteen months later, Ms. Tesorioro’s cancer spread to her lymph nodes and bones. Not relevant to…

In 2009, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force officially recommended that women from the ages of 50 to 74 should get a mammogram every two years. Over the years though, women with no medical history of breast cancer risk factors have been given some conflicting recommendations from various medical and advocacy organizations. So, when should women begin to get regular screenings for breast cancer? Well, it seems that women can actually lower their risk of dying from breast cancer by starting to get regular screenings at an even earlier age. In fact, the American Cancer Society, the National …

A new cancer clinical study has shown significant evidence that yoga can be used to great effect for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Researchers discovered that this form of exercise provided several benefits including: Easing pain Relieving fatigue Improving overall mood Nearly 200 participants were monitored for this study which was one of the first to take such an approach with breast cancer patients. The practice of yoga appeared to have an impact on several aspects of the patients’ quality of life. Additionally, it seems that this form of exercise is great at regulating the release…

In the last few years, breast cancer awareness campaigns have seen significant success. According to the director of Avon Foundation Breast Cancer Crusade, Dr. Marc Hurlbert, prevention will be the primary focus for the next decade of research. This is a great approach to have, but there has already been significant steps taken, even in just this last year. Let’s look at some of the most important breast cancer research breakthroughs from the 2013: 1) Better Benefits from Regular Exercise New research from the University of Minnesota has provided more insight into exatly how exercise can reduce someone’s risk …

Throughout October, the nation has really come together to show its support through numerous charitable events in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. So, we thought it might be a great idea to provide our readers with a quick glimpse at some of these nationally recognized events. Breast cancer affects many families around the country, so it should come as no surprise that Americans have been so proactive in showing their support and taking steps to get involved in fundraisers and other awareness events during October and the rest of the year. If you have been itching to…

To show our appreciation for National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) and all that it has helped to accomplish, we’d like to share this new infographic! Click on this thumbnail to see the full image: Looking at the statistics for breast cancer can be scary. This disease is the second leading cause of cancer related death in women, and it’s estimated that nearly 1 in every 8 women will develop breast cancer over their lifetimes. Although, when you look at the big picture, there are a lot of positives to consider as well. For starters, the death rates from breast…

“My mother fought cancer for almost a decade and died at 56,” was the beginning of Angelina Jolie’s influential New York Times article on her recent double mastectomy. The 38-year-old actress is widely known not only for her successes as an actress and director, but for her beauty, sex appeal, and arguably the most famous lips of all time. (Though Steven Tyler might beg to differ…) The Risk Factor Jolie, the mother of six, felt this procedure was necessary after a screening revealed that she carried the “faulty” gene BRCA1. The implications of this discovery were an 87% chance…

During the month of October, you’ll be hearing a lot about breast cancer awareness, and you’ll see plenty of related advertisements on TV. Some of these may encourage you to get screened or help support ongoing breast cancer research. It’s not uncommon to feel a little overwhelmed by all of the information being presented to you during National Breast Cancer Month, so we wanted to keep things simple for this post. Even if you don’t want to go in for a mammogram every year, it is important to be aware of the warning signs for breast cancer.…

  Among women the world over, there aren’t many things more dreaded than breast cancer. This deadly disease not only takes a significant toll on the patient, but also all of the loved ones in their life. Most women have at least a rudimentary knowledge of the breast cancer screening options available to them, but did you know that there are also some natural ways in which you can protect yourself from breast cancer? Let’s have a look at some of the best ways you can keep your body, and especially your breast tissue, healthy: Add More Fish…

It seems that there are a lot more young women who are being diagnosed with an advanced type of breast cancer, compared to about 30 years ago. While the overall rate of cancer still remains low for this age group, a new breast cancer clinical study has shed some light on a potential issue. Medical researchers now say that one out of every 173 women will develop breast cancer before she reaches 40. Too make matters worse, the prognosis is often worse for younger patients who are diagnosed with breast cancer. The Rate of Breast Cancer among Younger…

All over the world, there are ongoing cancer clinical trials which are providing new insights into some of the most deadly diseases known to human kind. With every successful study, medical researchers are developing better treatments and methods of detection which will be used to save many thousands of lives all over the world. Forward progress can be slow and requires a tremendous amount of effort, but they are making some very positive steps in a number of different fields. There aren’t many people out there today who have not been touched by cancer in one form or another. For…

Today, breast cancer treatment has two primary goals: 1. Rid the patient’s body of the cancer 2. Prevent the disease from returning First though, an oncologist will need to determine what type of treatment would be most effective for their patient. They will make this decision based on the size of their patient’s tumor, as well as the extent to which the breast cancer has spread into the lymph nodes and/or throughout other areas of their body (i.e. determining the stage of the patient’s breast cancer). Several other factors will also play a key role in this decision process…

If you or someone you love is affected by breast cancer, there is hope. Almost daily, new breakthroughs in research are being made. Stem Cells To Fight Breast Cancer Stem cell research continues to lead to new discoveries in science and medicine. Recently, researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center identified a gene (RhoC) which may prevent the spread of breast cancer. The results of this research “suggest new avenues to combating the deadliest cells driving the most lethal stage of breast cancer progression” by targeting this gene in order to stop the spread of cancer…

The Relationship Between Diet & Disease What, exactly, is the relationship between diet and disease? Can the food that you ingest on a daily basis really make a difference? Avoid Meat, Eat Plants Eat plants. This is the general consensus in cancer research today. Through a 20-year research project, commonly referred to as The China Study (or China-Oxford-Cornell Diet and Health Project), researchers identified 8,000 significant associations between diet and disease. What you put into your body matters. It can create health or disease. The China Study found that “most people who had plant-based diets were healthier” than their…

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we put together this little infographic to give an overview of breast cancer. Click the thumbnail below to open the full image: Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer. The chance that breast cancer will be responsible for a woman’s death is about 1 in 36 (about 3%), however death rates from breast cancer have been declining since about 1990, with larger decreases in women younger than 50. These decreases are believed to be the result of earlier detection through screening…

October is right around the corner, and that means that people are starting to gear up for this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month! This is an annual event that takes place every October in order to help raise awareness for breast cancer. During this month, plenty of information and support will be offered to anyone who has been affected by this illness. It also serves as a great opportunity to remind women everywhere of the importance of early detection. So, it is time to break out the pink ribbons and show your support for breast cancer awareness this…

Incredibly, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved a new drug for breast cancer patients. On Friday, the FDA gave its approval for Novartis’s new breast cancer drug, which will expand the available options for patients in the more advanced stages of this deadly disease. According to recent reports, the drug is known as Aflinitor, and it works by increasing the time in which endocrine therapy is able to keep this disease at bay. Now that it has been approved by the FDA, the drug can be used by the patients who are postmenopausal with a…

Some exciting news has broken as specialists may have a new test for breast cancer risk. Unlike other conventional methods, this test isn’t looking for inherited genetic mutations. It’s looking for specific alterations in DNA functions– namely the BRCA1 breast cancer gene. Cancer research has shown that inherited genetic mutations are not the primary cause of most breast cancer cases. Just about 60 percent of cases are linked to outside risk factors such as: Lack of exercise Poor overall diet Excessive alcohol consumption Smoking cigarettes “Women who carry the signature are at particularly higher risk of developing breast cancer…

It’s not so difficult to understand why myths and half-truths gain so much popularity in our world. They provide answers to concepts that seem unanswerable and for many, accepting and encouraging belief in such possibilities is much easier than admitting to not knowing. But all these would have passed decades ago when we knew next to nothing about breast cancer. It’s 2021, and science has come too far for you to stay ignorant. With this in mind, read on as we debunk a few misconceptions about breast cancer. Myth One: Wearing a Bra Can Cause Breast Cancer It seems…