It’s October, a time when the color pink is prevalent in our communities, making us aware it’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

One in eight women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime, according to medical experts, and the most significant risk factors for breast cancer are gender — being a woman — and growing older. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in women, behind only lung cancer.

Early detection and treatment remain the best defense in fighting the disease. Breast cancer death rates have decreased steadily since 1989, the ACS reports.

When detected early, breast cancer has a five-year survival rate exceeding 90 percent.

Mammograms are safe and the most effective screening tool used to find breast cancer, especially at the earlier stages, according to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Many events have been held throughout the area this month to call attention to the disease and the steps that can be taken to fight it. Those included a fundraising and information event held Oct. 13 at the Mingo Senior Center, the annual Walk for Women breast cancer awareness walk held Oct. 15 in New Cumberland and Wednesday’s wreath ceremony held by the Women in Action Against Cancer Coalition of Jefferson County.

We encourage women in the community to examine their breasts, schedule a clinical breast examine and a mammogram.

Make the appointment. The only thing you have to lose is your life.