FORT IRWIN, Calif. — Fort Irwin Medical Activity hosted their Annual Breast Cancer Awareness 5K for Soldiers, family and community members on Oct. 27.
“National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a chance to raise awareness about the importance of early detection of breast cancer; spread the word about mammograms; and encourage communities, organizations, families and individuals to get involved,” said 1st Lt. Rachel Seggel, Clinical Staff Nurse at Weed Army Community Hospital.
One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. According to the World Health Organization, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, claiming the lives of hundreds of thousands of women each year and affecting countries at all levels of modernization. Although breast cancer in men is rare, an estimated 2,470 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and approximately 460 will die each year.
The American Cancer Society, states “evidence is growing that regular physical activity reduces breast cancer risk, especially in women past menopause.” The American Cancer Society also recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week (or a combination of these), preferably spread throughout the week.
“Fort Irwin MEDDAC has hosted the Breast Cancer Awareness 5k for over 18 years,” said Seggel.
Hosting the breast cancer awareness 5K encourages community members to come together to learn about screening and early detection, increase awareness and continually improving treatment options.
For more information visit www.irwin.amedd.army.mil.