The Wake County Board of Commissioners unanimously declared the month of October Breast Cancer Awareness Month and is continuing outreach in the community. In Wake County, more than 4,000 women were diagnosed with breast cancer between 2015-2019, and sadly, more than 500 women lost their battle with the disease during that timeframe.

As the second most common type of cancer in women in the United States, breast cancer has become the leading cause of cancer death among women overall. But early detection and screening measures can help women lower their risks and seek treatment in time.

"Clinical breast exams, self-exams and mammograms can save lives and detect cancer in time for treatment," said Vice Chair Shinica Thomas of the Wake County Board of Commissioners. "The best protection we have against breast cancer is early detection and everyone is encouraged, even men, to talk to their health care provider about their individual screening and risk factors." 

About 85% of breast cancers occur in women who have no family history of breast cancer and the most significant risk factors are gender and age. The good news is that most women can survive breast cancer if it’s found and treated early. Wake County is encouraging women to schedule their mammograms this October.

"As a breast cancer survivor myself, I have seen how research and advocacy have helped make significant advances in the fight against breast cancer,” said Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson, who was diagnosed more than 10 years ago. “I ask all residents this month to take time to celebrate successes, memorialize lost battles and make sure they are checking themselves and encouraging their loved ones to do the same."

To help spread awareness and access to resources, Wake County staff will be taking part in community events throughout the month of October. These events include:

• Breast Cancer Awareness Rally
  THIS Saturday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  Exchange Plaza, 227 Fayetteville St., Raleigh
  This event will raise awareness for breast cancer awareness month and is held in partnership with Faith Strong. The event includes Wake County staff members who have collaborated on a book about 22 breast cancer survivors chronicling their cancer journeys.
  
   
• Breast Cancer Education Sessions
  Staff will visit multiple locations throughout the county offering 45-minute education sessions about breast cancer risk factors, community resources, self-exams and more.
  • St. Matthews Church, Oct. 16
  • Watts Chapel Church, Oct. 15
  • Shaw University, Oct. 27
  • Longview High School Display, Oct. 31
  • Wake County Public Health Center, Oct. 31
  • Wake County Health & Human Services Regional Centers – Oct. 31

Wake County also is encouraging our thousands of employees to Check Yo'Self, learn about the risks and take appropriate steps to prevent cancer. There are regular screenings offered at the convenient Wake County Employee Health Center to help increase the chances of early detection.

There’s also a Paint a Pumpkin Pink Contest, offering Wake County staff a fun way to express their creativity using the color pink while also supporting those affected by best cancer. For more information about breast health, check out this Wake County webpage.