News facts:
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October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, symbolizes a sense of community for individuals with breast cancer, however the experiences of those living with metastatic breast cancer (MBC), the most advanced stage of the disease, is rarely discussed.
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MBC, also known as Stage 4 breast cancer or advanced breast cancer, occurs when cancer has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body.
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Thirty percent of people initially diagnosed with earlier stages of breast cancer will eventually develop recurrent or metastatic disease. In the US, an estimated 155,000 people are living with MBC.
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MBC frequently involves lifelong treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation and targeted therapies, to control the spread of the disease and alleviate symptoms.
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Through the efforts of breast cancer advocates nationwide and the Metastatic Breast Cancer Network, United States Congress is considering a national proclamation of October 13th as National Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day, a day that has already been observed by many cities and states nationwide.
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According to the recent Pfizer-sponsored BRIDGE Survey (Bridging Gaps, Expanding Outreach – Metastatic Breast Cancer Patient Survey) of 950 people living with MBC, nearly seven in 10 respondents desire increased public awareness of MBC.
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According to the survey, 53 percent of respondents believe MBC receives too little public attention.
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Forty-four percent of respondents reported being afraid to talk openly about their experiences, signaling the need for more public dialogue about MBC.
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Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day recognizes the thousands of individuals living with MBC, who want attention brought to this disease with the ultimate goal of having more and better treatments developed. People living with MBC need this disease to be recognized and no longer ignored and misunderstood.
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For more information on Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day please visit www.mbcnetwork.org.
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For more information on the BRIDGE survey visit www.BRIDGEMBC.com.
Commentary on Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day:
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"While there is no cure for metastatic breast cancer, some individuals are able to live longer with the disease. However, metastatic breast cancer remains a clinical challenge in the oncology community. October 13 places emphasis on the disease stressing the need for new, targeted treatments that will help prolong life." - William Gradishar, MD, Professor of Medicine; Director, Breast Medical Oncology, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
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"When I was first diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer I couldn't find help and support for my specific needs. This type of roadblock inspired me to become an advocate for women living with the disease. Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day recognizes the thousands of us living with the disease who want their voices heard." - Pamela Lipton, living with metastatic breast cancer
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"Raising awareness of metastatic breast cancer, a largely misunderstood disease, will encourage research advances to bring us one step closer to getting treatments to extend life
