FORT LEE, Va. (Oct. 9, 2014) -- National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to openly discuss the realities of a serious illness that affects both men and women, and emphasize the importance of regular medical screenings that promote early detection.

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is defined as a malignant (cancerous) tumor that starts in the cells of the breast.

About 1-in-8 women (12 percent) born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point during their life. After skin cancer, it is the most common kind of cancer in women. While male breast cancer occurs less often, it is just as serious and should be part of annual medical screenings, particularly among older adults.

The projected breast cancer numbers for women in the U.S. are as follows:

• About 232,670 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in women over the coming year.

• About 62,570 new cases of carcinoma in situ (early stage cancer) will be diagnosed over that same time frame.

• About 40,000 women will die from breast cancer in 2015.

The good news is many women can survive breast cancer if it's found and treated early. The U.S. population includes more than 2.8 million breast cancer survivors, and there are many new tools to increase the rate of early detection including better use of mammography exams.

At Kenner Army Health Clinic, one of the most pressing concerns is educating and empowering women by encouraging breast self-exams. Again, early detection and awareness of changes in breast tissue are critical in the treatment of the disease in its early stages.

Regular checkups, mammograms, adhering to treatment and knowing about recurrences are all points of emphasis during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Kenner is asking the community to help get the word out -- "Early Detection is the Best Protection."

Other ways to participate include the following:

• Ask your doctor and/or nurse to discuss the importance of getting screened for breast cancer as well as the types of exams that are suitable for your age and family history, and how to detect changes in breast tissue.

• Encourage women, age 40 and older, to talk to their doctor about mammograms and self-exams.

• Spread the early detection message by putting on your pink this month, especially during the Oct. 17 observance of National Mammography Day.

Are you in need of a mammogram? If so, the Radiology Clinic is now fully staffed and ready to serve the Kenner family.

To schedule an annual exam, beneficiaries will need a referral from their primary care provider. After that, they can call (804) 734-9118 to scheduled the appointment.

Remember, early detection is the best protection. Learn more about breast cancer at www.cancer.org/cancer/ breastcancer.