10.02.25 – Breast Cancer Awareness Month/Be Pink Merchandise

Thursday, October 2, 2025

Breast Cancer Awareness Month takes place every October and focuses on promoting screening and prevention of the disease.

The American Cancer Society’s estimates for breast cancer in the United States for 2025 are:

• About 316,950 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women.
• About 59,080 new cases of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) will be diagnosed.
• About 42,170 women will die from breast cancer.

During this month, various campaigns and programs are designed to:

• Support individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, including those with metastatic breast cancer.
• Educate people about breast cancer risk factors.
• Emphasize the importance of regular screenings, beginning at age 40 or at an appropriate age based on individual risk factors.
• Fundraise for breast cancer research.

October 13 is designated as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. Approximately 30% of early-stage breast cancers can eventually metastasize, meaning they spread to parts of the body outside the breast. This day highlights the need for increased research on metastatic disease.

While breast cancer is significantly more common in women, it can also affect men. From October 17 to October 23, we observe Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week.

Regular wellness visits are recommended to include breast exams and mammograms, starting at age 45 and sometimes at age 40. Fortunately, mammograms are covered at no cost through our medical insurance.

Want to Be Pink this month?

APFA Breast Cancer Awareness Month pins are available by visiting our APFA Solidarity Shop.

Members in good standing are eligible for one free pin per order, but must login first at apfa.org/shop to verify eligibility. Discounts are applied after ‘Checkout’ and after entering your email address on file with APFA.

The APFA Lightweight Breast Cancer Awareness T-Shirt is also available for $30.00.

It is not too late to order OEKO-TEK-certified pink uniform-approved apparel. Click the images below to order. $1.00 from every unit sold will be donated to Stand Up To Cancer.

  

We can make a significant impact on this cause and on one another by engaging in meaningful conversations with our family, friends, and fellow crewmembers. By prioritizing our overall health every day, we can strengthen our collective efforts and support one another more effectively.

In Solidarity and in Health,

Hayley Brewer
APFA National Health Department Chair
[email protected]