The National Breast Cancer Month, held in October, is a time to educate people about breast cancer.  Though many organizations work year round to raise breast cancer awareness and fight to end breast cancer, during this month there are many special programs available.  There are many ways in which the National Breast Cancer month raises awareness.

One of the primary groups targeted in the National Breast are women who have never had breast cancer.  By teaching women about early diagnosis the National Breast Cancer Month helps women stand a greater chance of surviving breast cancer.  Many women do not get regular mammograms or perform self-checks.  Because early diagnosis is such a critical factor with breast cancer, helping women see the importance of mammograms and self-checks.  It is also a time to correct misconceptions about breast cancer.  One major misconception is that if a woman does not have a family history of breast cancer, it is unlikely that she will get it.  Another major misconception is that it only happens to older women.  Women in their 20s have been known to get breast cancer.

One important day included in the National Breast Cancer Month is National Mammography Day.  On this day, women are reminded to make an appointment for a mammography.  Many doctor's offices, hospitals and clinics post signs to remind women to make their appointment.  In this way, breast cancer can be caught in its early stages.

Another group that the National Breast Cancer Month helps to raise awareness with is women who have survived breast cancer.  For these women, National Breast Cancer Month is a time to focus energy and enthusiasm on the fight to end breast cancer.  It is a time for women to celebrate being a survivor of breast cancer and remind those around them not to lose sight of the final goal of finding a cure for breast cancer.

Women who are currently being treated for breast cancer can benefit from the National Breast Cancer Month.  Attending events with other women who have or have had breast cancer can be very helpful.  Learning about treatment options and finding support can give women hope when they are coping with disease.  Simply talking to other women who have gone through or are going through what they are can help a woman know she is not alone.

Yet another group that the National Breast Cancer Month helps raise awareness with is the friends and family of women who have breast cancer.  Participating in events that happen during National Breast Cancer Month to help end breast cancer can help the friends and family feel involved and supportive.  It can also be a time for them to improve their understanding of breast cancer so as to better help their loved one.

Medical Practitioners also benefit from the information spread during the National Breast Cancer Month.  Doctors and nurses can attend lectures and listen to breast cancer experts talking about the latest advancements and treatment options.  There are also often forums for women to voice concerns about their breast cancer treatment so that medical practitioners can take these into account.