October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
October 1, 2024 – According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, in 2024, an estimated 310,720 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S., as well as 56,500 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer. There are currently over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. A study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that Flight Attendants in the U.S. have a higher prevalence of every cancer they studied, especially breast cancer, melanoma, and non-melanoma skin cancer.
Early detection of the disease remains the cornerstone of breast cancer control. When breast cancer is detected early with adequate diagnosis and treatment, there is a good chance that breast cancer can be cured.
This is something that affects all of us within our Flight Attendant community and the world. Use this month to encourage your mothers, spouse, sisters, and flying partners to get an exam or perform a self exam.
Remember, your AFA EAP is available to confidentially assist you with any health-related issues. You can find a listing of your local EAP committee members at afacwa.org under the EAP department or by calling 800-424-2406.
