October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a cause near and dear to our hearts (literally and figuratively) as a team of mostly women. Approximately 13% (about one in eight) of U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer in the course of their life, and it accounts for about 1 in 3 instances of new female cancers each year. Early detection can significantly increase one’s survival rate, which is why our partner, Keep A Breast, has such a big job to do.
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, when breast cancer is detected early in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%. Conscious Step partner Keep A Breast (KAB) is working to reduce breast cancer risk and its impact globally through art, education, prevention, and action. One of their education tools is their free app that helps young people educate themselves on the first signs of cancer, how to check themselves, and so much more. The app helps young people establish routine self-checks (which inspired our collection name), which is how roughly 40% of diagnosed breast cancers are detected.
Keep A Breast is also acutely aware that women of color face many specific, long-standing challenges in their pursuit of appropriate, proactive and equal healthcare treatment for breast cancer. That’s why the Keep A Breast Give Back Grant directly supports women of color breast cancer patients and survivors based in the U.S. with $500 financial aid grants to help ease the cost of medical treatments, alternative care, living expenses, and even self-care.
In addition to providing educational resources and grant funding for survivors, KAB is also heavily involved in building community and support through the arts. Their Fit 4 Prevention campaigns held in October, encourage local gyms and trainers to hold courses that not just fundraise, but also act as a prevention tool (the Center for Disease Control and Prevention says that just 30 minutes of exercise 3-5 times a week lowers your risk of developing breast cancer 30-50%). The Treasured Chest Program is also a hallmark of the nonprofit, offering chest cast kits to anyone diagnosed with breast cancer or testing positive with gene mutations to capture a moment in time that combines sculpture, creativity, and artistry. This program is the foundation of KAB’s artistic approach to breast cancer support, dialogue, and community building.
According to the American Cancer Society, death rates of breast cancer have been decreasing steadily since 1989. They believe it’s the result of earlier detection through screening and increased awareness, as well as better treatments! When we work together to bring awareness and educate about the disease, we have the potential to save lives. Join us in supporting Keep A Breast and supporting self-checks today!
