In 2007, an estimated 178,480 women were diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Overall, this month is dedicated to increasing awareness of the importance of early breast cancer detection. There are many ways to help in the effort to fight breast cancer including donating directly to reputable charities that work to raise funds for the prevention, treatment, and cure of this disease. Many charities also hold special events (i.e. runs and walks) that you can participate in. Also, many of these organizations partner with various companies in October (and throughout the year). By supporting companies and organizations (like the five that I have listed below), we can do our part in helping to promote early cancer prevention.

1. The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
dana
www.dana-farber.org

-You can send holiday cards and exclusive gifts (i.e. apparel, candles and ornaments) from their collection. Purchases support Dana-Farber’s mission to “save lives, find cures, and dramatically impact the quality of life for patients and families facing all forms of cancer”. For more information and order inquiries, call (617) 582-7724 or e-mail Holiday_Orders@dfci.harvard.edu.

2. Susan G. Komen for the Cure

susan
www.komen.org

-In addition to offering a variety of events (i.e. bowling, cooking and golf) to raise money and awareness in the battle against breast cancer, they also sell a variety of items online at their Promise Gift Shop. Items include apparel, jewelry, cards and other special gifts. They also have almost 200 partner programs where various companies have special offers with a percentage of sales going towards the foundation. To see a list of their current partners, please visit here.

3. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation
bcrf
www.bcrfcure.org

-They offer a variety of “pink” products and programs in October and throughout the year. In their “Shop Pink” program, they have partnered with a variety of items, programs and events in order to help fight breast cancer. Beauty items, electronics, fashion and jewelry are some of the featured items. For the full list, please visit here.

4. Breast Cancer Network of Strength
bcns
http://www.networkofstrength.org/

-Network of Strength has teamed up with a variety of retail partners who are committed to their mission “to ensure no one faces breast cancer alone”. Proceeds from their various programs support their programs and services including a 24/7 hotline staffed by trained breast cancer survivors. For a list of partners (including fashion, beauty, food, home and kid items), please visit here.

5. National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
nbcf
www.nationalbreastcancer.org

-They have partnered with a variety of companies so that potential contributors can both save money and help support their foundation. Partners include Linens ‘n Things, FujiFilm and National City Visa. For more information, please visit here.

Most importantly, moms don’t forget your own personal breast exams!