October 13 is Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. It is not “No Bra Day.” It is Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day.
I do not object to the Pink Ribbon campaign. I even like the silly team names at the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. What I do not like is trivializing someone’s pain and suffering. Here are some things you need to know about metastasized (Stage IV) breast cancer:
- Metastasis occurs when cancer cells spread to a vital organ.
- Breast cancer metastasizes to the bones, liver, lungs, and brain most often, but can spread to any region of the body.
- An estimated 155,000 Americans are living with metastatic breast cancer and approximately 40,000 people will die this year from metastatic breast cancer.
- Treatment for metastatic breast cancer is lifelong and focuses on control of the spread of the disease and quality of life.
- Approximately 6% to 10% of breast cancer diagnoses are Stage IV right from the beginning.
- Metastatic breast cancer can occur up to 15-20 years after the initial diagnosis.
- Of those diagnosed with early stage breast cancer, 20% -30% will develop metastatic breast cancer.
- Breast cancer is not just a disease of post-menopausal women. Young people and men can be diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer.
- There are different types of metastatic breast cancer. Treatment choices are determined by the type of breast cancer, location and extent of the metastasis, and previous treatments.
- While metastatic breast cancer is not an automatic death sentence, most people will ultimately die of their disease.
I rarely get riled up about an issue, but I had a colleague die from metastatic breast cancer. I have a friend who is currently living with and being treated for metastatic breast cancer. I don't see how going braless shows support; especially on this particular day. So do me a favor and KEEP YOUR BRA ON.
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