(Black PR Wire) October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month - a crucial time to remind us that awareness and early detection can save lives and to encourage us to prioritize our health and take proactive steps to reduce our risk of breast cancer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), while White women are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer, Black women face a disproportionately higher mortality rate. This often occurs due to later-stage diagnoses when the cancer is more aggressive.

Several factors influence breast cancer risk, including age, family history, and lifestyle choices. While you can’t change certain risk factors, such as age or genetics, you can improve your health by adopting a well-balanced diet, staying physically active, and scheduling regular screenings. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that women ages 40 to 74 who are at average risk for breast cancer receive a mammogram every two years.

Public figures such as Robin Roberts, co-anchor of ABC’s Good Morning America, comedian Wanda Sykes and Hoda Kotb, co-anchor of NBC News’ TODAY and the co-host of TODAY’s fourth hour, have bravely shared their experiences with the disease. Breast cancer is not just a women’s issue; it affects individuals of all genders.  Male figures such as Ernie Green, a former Cleveland Browns running back, and Mathew Knowles, father of Beyoncé and Solange, have also battled breast cancer.

Sisters and brothers, the BPRW newsroom team encourages you to take this month to start prioritizing your health by adopting a healthy lifestyle, and to be sure to talk to your doctor as soon as you see or feel any changes on your breast.