Susan G. Komen for the Cure
by Susan Jankowski Atlanta
I proudly support Susan G. Komen for the Cure, a worldwide network of breast cancer survivors and their supporters. Facilitating breast cancer research, raising awareness, and working to ensure the highest levels of care for those battling the disease, Susan G. Komen for the Cure has invested approximately $1.5 billion in its efforts to date. Named in honor of a woman who faced breast cancer with bravery and strength, Susan G. Komen for the Cure was established in 1982. Since its inception, the organization has contributed a great deal to the fight against breast cancer, playing a critical role in advancing research responsible for saving millions of lives. Due in part to Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s efforts, nearly 75 percent of women age 40 and older choose to undergo a mammogram on a regular basis. As women’s awareness of the importance of early detection increases, the survival rates in America and abroad also rise; available statistics back up this supposition. In 1982, only 30 percent of women visited a physician for a mammogram. At that time, the breast cancer survival rate was 74 percent. Today, with a majority of the female population receiving mammograms, the 5-year survival rate has jumped to 98 percent. Currently, 2.5 million breast cancer survivors live in the United States. The federal government devotes notable resources to assisting Susan G. Komen for the Cure in accomplishing its mission, allotting more than $900 million to breast cancer research, treatment programs, and preventative education on an annual basis. When Susan G. Komen for the Cure came into being 18 years ago, the U.S. government contributed only $30 million to the cause. Research shows that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. Approximately 5 million Americans will develop breast cancer in the next 25 years. Of those diagnosed with the disease, an estimated 1 million will die. On a global scale, 25 million women will likely be forced to confront breast cancer, 10 million potentially falling victim to the ailment in the upcoming 2 1/2 decades. By supporting the work of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, these numbers will hopefully decrease significantly. To learn more about how you can join Susan G. Komen for the Cure in the fight against breast cancer, visit ww5.komen.org.
