Many people diagnosed with breast cancer experience fear of recurrence. While some level of fear is natural, excessive and persistent fear can negatively impact your quality of life. Signs that fears are interfering with your daily life and wellbeing include heightened anxiety, trouble making decisions, difficulty completing daily tasks, and a greater risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression. Being able to recognize the intensity and frequency of these fears is necessary to be able to manage them effectively.

People like you and me bring something irreplaceable to advocacy—real, lived experience. We know what it’s like to wait for test results, navigate treatment options and deal with the emotional stress. We’re the perfect people to speak up, act and work toward positive change by raising awareness, supporting others, pushing for policy changes, fundraising for research and simply sharing our own experiences with others

While mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are now well-publicized, there are other, lesser-known genetic mutations which can significantly increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer as well. Understanding these genetic risks allows individuals to make informed decisions about their health, from preventive measures to early detection strategies. Here, we discuss the lesser-known genetic mutations that can also impact the risk of developing breast cancer.

March 3^rd is recognized as Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) Day. While its aggressive nature and fewer treatment options can be distressing for those living with TNBC, access to information and support resources also continues to grow and improve. Seeking help, staying informed, and keeping in tune with your own experiences and emotions can help you feel more in control of your journey. Here, we present a list of educational and support resources for those diagnosed with TNBC.

Recently, a woman from Alberta, who is dealing with a breast cancer diagnosis, reached out to me on Instagram. We’d connected before and shared parts of our breast cancer experiences with each other, so it was great to hear from her again. This time, though, instead of a written update she sent me a video clip from season two of The Big C, a television series currently on Prime TV. The show stars actor Laura Linney as Cathy, a suburban mom diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma and in the scene, Cathy advises a group of young medical students on how to treat their cancer patients.

Some people require additional imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI, due to factors like dense breasts or increased risk from BRCA gene mutations or family history. False positives on a mammogram can often lead to unnecessary biopsies. Despite these challenges, mammograms and other screening tools remain essential. This emphasizes the importance of advancing screening technology and pathology, which is where AI shows promise for improving outcomes.

When it comes to breast cancer prevention, many factors come into play—genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices. While we can’t control our genes, we do have the power to influence our health through diet, exercise, and other habits. Over the years, research has pointed to various lifestyle factors that may either increase or reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

As we look back on 2024, we take a moment to reflect. This year has been one of growth, impact, and unwavering commitment to supporting breast cancer patients and their caregivers. Through donations, advocacy, networking, and your stories we've made significant progress in raising awareness, bringing you critical research, and providing vital resources and education for patients and their families.

Yet, the thought of having to say that “I have cancer” out loud to my family and close friends wasn’t something I wanted to do. It made me feel like I was looking for attention. That’s because having cancer is surreal and warps reality. It was near impossible for me to wrap my head around. Sharing this information felt deeply personal and required me to be vulnerable, strong and courageous all at the same time. No easy feat. So of course, once I confided in my circle of family and friends, I wanted them to say and do the things I needed.

Both men and women have breast tissue, and while men don’t have the ability to produce milk, their breast cells can still develop into cancer. About 1 in 5 men with breast cancer have a close relative —male or female—who also had the disease. Research indicates that biological males make up half of the U.S. population carrying a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, genes commonly linked to breast cancer in women.