In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I salute the more than 2,000,000 breast cancer survivors in the United States, pay tribute to the memories of those who have fallen victim to this terrible disease, and thank the many activists who are working so hard to find a cure.   

Nationally, one in eight women who live to age 85 will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.  In 2005, there were 212,000 new cases of breast cancer and over 40,000 deaths caused by breast cancer.  Even with the great progress that has been made, breast cancer is still the leading cause of cancer deaths for women in Illinois.  Only 9% of breast cancers in Illinois are detected at the earliest, most curable stage.  

During October, we must recognize the advances that have been made towards finding a cure for a disease that has robbed so many women of their lives.  Today, there is an 88% survival rate for breast cancer and, with early detection, there is over a 95% survival rate.  That’s why we should do all that we can to advance prevention and to promote early detection.  This month provides an opportunity to educate women about the key components to early detection, like monthly breast exams, annual mammograms, and leading a healthy lifestyle.   

Breast cancer awareness and doing more to find a cure must be a year-round commitment.  Critical funding is needed for more genetic and clinical research and to bring an increased awareness to early detection methods, so more lives can be saved.  American women are more likely today to develop invasive breast cancer than they were thirty years ago.  In 1975, the risk was 1 in 11.  Today, the risk is 1 in 8.  We need to investigate the causes for that, which is why I am a cosponsor of H.R. 2231, the Breast Cancer and Environment Research Act.   

My family, like so many others, has been touched by the impacts of breast cancer.   I urge everyone to use the special chance afforded by this month to promote more awareness about the early detection methods and to fight for greater funding for medical research that are the keys to saving women’s lives.