WHEREAS, breast cancer is among the top three incidents of cancer in Alaska; and
WHEREAS, one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Although significantly less common, men are also susceptible to developing breast cancer; and
WHEREAS, three major factors that influence a person’s risk of developing breast cancer are gender, age, and changes in certain breast cancer genes. Researchers have found females over 50 years old are the most susceptible to developing the disease; and
WHEREAS, while these factors are beyond one’s control, Alaskans can help reduce their risk of breast cancer by maintaining a healthy body weight, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, controlling stress, abstaining from alcohol, and avoiding exposure to carcinogens and excessive radiation; and
WHEREAS, regular breast cancer screening including mammograms, clinical breast exams, and breast self-exams, also play an important role in breast cancer prevention and detection; and
WHEREAS, while there is currently no cure for breast cancer, researchers, organizations, and individuals are dedicating their time, energy, and resources to developing a cure to prevent future health issues and unnecessary loss of life from this devastating disease; and
WHEREAS, this October, we take time to recognize the hard-working citizens, organizations, and health care providers working toward a cure, and we honor all breast cancer survivors and victims for their strength, grace, and perseverance.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim October 2019 as:
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to learn the facts about breast cancer and take the necessary preventative measures support those individuals and their families who are currently battling breast cancer, and honor those who have lost the fight.
