Breast cancer is the leading cancer among women in the United States, with the exception of skin cancer. Breast cancer accounts for 30 percent of all new cancers in women each year. Although breast cancer is usually thought of as a women’s disease, men are vulnerable, too. During the month of October, the goal of the American Cancer Society is to spread breast cancer awareness. Research has shown that breast cancer prevention begins with establishing healthy lifestyle habits that include exercising, eating healthy, routine doctor visits and screenings and staying in tune with your body.

Breast cancer begins when cells grow out of control and, typically, form a tumor that can be detected by X-ray or felt as a lump. A tumor is malignant or cancerous if the cells invade tissue or spread to other areas of the body. It is important to know that most breast lumps are benign and not cancerous. These non-cancerous growths are normal and do not spread throughout the body. It is recommended to have any breast lumps checked by a physician.