More than 20 years ago, two organizations created a partnership to increase breast cancer awareness. The partnership has grown to include a number of national public service organizations, professional medical associations, and government agencies all working together to build awareness of the disease, share information and provide access to screening services for countless women.

They claimed October as their month to highlight the issue, so today, Oct. 1, marks the first day of Breast Cancer Awareness Month [1]. There are so many great resources out there and here are just a few websites to help you locate any information you might need.

• National Breast Cancer Awareness Month [2]: More than just one month a year, the NBCAM has a website with breaking news on breast cancer, lists of patient services, and basic as well as detailed information on the disease.
• American Cancer Society [3]: The ACS is dedicated to educating women on how to reduce their risk of developing the disease [4] and finding the best options for treating breast cancer. They believe in early detection and recommend that all women over 40 receive an annual mammogram [5]. The ACS website is loaded with information and they have 24 hour telephone service to offer the comfort of live support and to answer questions about cancer, link callers with resources in their communities, and provide information on local events (1-800-ACS-2345).

There are two more so

• Susan G. Komen for the Cure [6]: Founded by Komen's sister, this foundation is dedicated to curing breast cancer at every stage - funding research on the causes and possible cures, as well as helping ease the pain and anxiety those diagnosed with the disease and their families. You can help raise funds for research by participating in the 3 Day Event [7]. It is a three day, 60 mile walk that takes place in major cities all over the country throughout the summer and fall. If you missed the walk this year, you can always aim for next year.
• National Breast Cancer Foundation [8]: NBCF's mission is to provide educational programs and funding for free mammograms to women who cannot afford them, as well as provide online resources for women battling breast cancer.

If shopping to support breast cancer research seems more your speed than walking 60 miles, Fab has the website for you! [9]

Source [10]