Op-Ed: Breast Cancer Awareness Month

This post was submitted by the Middlesex County Office of Communications: An op-ed from Middlesex County Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios

October marks the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness month. This annual campaign provides awareness and information about the disease and stresses the importance of yearly screenings.

The American Cancer Society has indicated 12 percent of women in the United States will develop breast cancer and, that as of 2014, there were more than 3.1 million breast cancer survivors. This figure alone illustrates the importance for women to get annual mammogram screenings: Early detection provides a better chance of becoming a survivor of this disease.

Events are scheduled throughout the month to not only raise awareness, but to raise funds that will be used to research a cure to this devastating illness that claims far too many lives each year.

There are many nonprofit organizations that help with funding for research of breast cancer, but perhaps one of the most well-known is the Susan G. Komen organization. This foundation not only provides funding for research but also provides information, education and support for not only women but also for men who are suffering from breast cancer.

You can become a part of the fight to find a cure by getting involved in one of the many fund-raising events scheduled for this month. Check online event calendars for any of the nonprofit organizations for breast cancer awareness or programs that may be sponsored in your town.

As we all know, there have been government cuts which have left some women uninsured and unable to get the necessary testing to insure a healthy life, but Middlesex County has expanded health services for women to include cancer screenings and other disease prevention services. Our goal is to provide services for all our residents so that they can continue to enjoy a healthy and happy life.

The Middlesex County Office of Health Services located at 35 Kennedy Blvd., East Brunswick, offers a wide array of services such as cancer screenings and education. The Middlesex County Cancer Education and Early Detection Program provides education and screening services for breast cancer.

If you are interested in finding out more information on the services offered, please contact the Middlesex County Office of Health Services at 732-745-3100 or the Middlesex County Cancer Education and Early Detection Program at 732-745-3107.