10 Facts Everyone Should Know About Breast Cancer

Be vigilant with your breast health. Know your body. For 20 years, Ford Warriors in Pink has been involved in the fight against breast cancer.

1. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

Buzzfeed

That's 12.5%.

2. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of death among women.

Anette Bunch / Getty Images

Second only to heart disease.

3. There were 1.7 million new cases of breast cancer worldwide in 2012.

hetero-topie.tumblr.com

Breast cancer isn't just an issue in the U.S., it's a worldwide epidemic.

4. Men can get breast cancer too.

Catherine Ledner / Getty Images

Though they're a small percentage, men are also at risk of getting breast cancer and should never rule it out as a possibility.

5. The two most common risk factors for breast cancer are being a woman and aging.

PhotoAlto / Antoine Arraou / Getty Images

Though these things cannot be changed, individuals in this category should be aware of the disease and any relevant family history. Signs of breast cancer usually start in women around the age of 40.

6. There are many benign breast diseases that can be mistaken for breast cancer.

Rob Lewine / Getty Images

These include conditions like hyperplasia, cysts, fibroadenomas, intraductal papillomas, sclerosing adenosis, and radial scars. Speak with your doctor about all of these possibilities.

7. Studies have shown that factors such as alcohol consumption, obesity, and diet all may have something to do with breast cancer.

beautifulpicturesofhealthyfood.tumblr.com

A well-balanced diet with everything in moderation is always best for your health.

8. 89.2% of people with breast cancer have survived five years or longer.

Javier Larrea / Getty Images

The closer you are to your own body, the better chance you have of fighting off this disease. Pay attention to your body and give yourself regular breast exams at home.

9. Women should start getting annual mammogram screenings when they turn 40.

Jekaterina Nikitina / Getty Images

Most women develop breast cancer after the age of 40, so don't forget to schedule your yearly mammogram. If the disease runs in your family, make sure you never miss an appointment.

10. There are around 2.5 million breast cancer survivors alive in the U.S.

David H. Lewis / Getty Images

And every last one of them is our hero.

For more information on how you can help, visit Ford Warriors in Pink and join the fight.