Breast Cancer Affects Us All: Raising Awareness for Women and Men

October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. While it primarily affects women, it can also impact men. This October, we came together to honor the lives touched by this disease, raise awareness, and extend our support. In Jemez Pueblo, increasing awareness can save lives by encouraging regular check-ups, promoting healthy lifestyles, and connecting the community with appropriate resources.  

What is Breast Cancer?   

(CDC, 2024)  

Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control. There are different types of breast cancer, and each type depends on which cells in the breast turn cancerous.  

The breast is made up of three main parts:  

• Lobules (glands that make milk)  

• Ducts (tubes that carry milk to the nipple)  

• Connective tissue (fibrous and fatty tissue that holds everything together)  

Most breast cancer cases form in the ducts or lobules. Over time, the cancer can spread outside the breast into blood vessels or lymph nodes, making early detection essential.  

Breast Cancer in Men  

The most common kinds of breast cancer in men are: 

(CDC, 2024) 

• Invasive ductal carcinoma. The cancer cells begin in the ducts and then grow outside the ducts into other parts of the breast tissue.   

• Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a breast disease that may lead to invasive breast cancer. The cancer cells are only in the lining of the ducts and have not spread to other tissues in the breast.  

Although women are at a higher risk for breast cancer, 1 in 100 diagnosed patients in the U.S. is a man. The types of breast cancer in men differ from those in women, highlighting that men can also be affected. This month at Jemez Public Health, we’re promoting awareness and fostering connections around this important issue.