October 20, 2025 by Isaiah Warfield October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. It is a time to honor survivors, remember those we have lost, and raise awareness about the importance of early detection and support. For me, this month carries personal meaning. I remember learning of my daughter’s breast cancer diagnosis in the late fall of 2022. It was such a shock. She was only 31 years old at the time of her diagnosis, merely days after her birthday. The uncertainty that came with the diagnosis was mind-numbing. My young grandson had many questions about what it meant for his mother to be ill. Like many families that are impacted by breast cancer, ours had to find strength in the face of fear and lean on one another for support. What I learned through the eyes of my daughter is that a survivor’s journey is ongoing. It comes with a barrage of questions. What will my annual scan reveal? How do I manage the chronic pain? When will I feel emotionally and psychologically safe? According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Further, the American Cancer Society indicates that African American women are about 40% more likely to die from this disease. Factors such as later-stage diagnosis, barriers to screening, and limited access to high-quality care contribute to this disparity. These realities highlight the importance of equitable access to care and inclusive cancer research that reflects the needs of African American women, underserved communities, and all people who are impacted by this illness. My family is fortunate that my daughter is receiving a high standard of care in the state where she lives. Understanding the Data & Local Impact The breast cancer incidence rate in Allegheny County has risen by approximately 11% since 2003 and has increased by nearly 6% in the state of Pennsylvania. Further, the incidence rate in Allegheny County is currently higher than both the rest of the state and nationally. These alarming statistics support the need for early detection, new treatments, and community-specific interventions to help ensure that all individuals have opportunities for screening and treatment. Community & Grantee Partners Within the footprint of the Jefferson Regional Foundation, grantees and community partners are working to promote services that address the social determinants of health. Community-based education, screening services, increased access, and compassionate care are included in those efforts. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, those efforts are especially visible through the work of AHN Jefferson Hospital and its Cancer Institute, which includes the Breast Cancer Center of Excellence. Throughout October 2025, the Jefferson Hospital Breast Center inside the AHN Cancer Institute is offering Walk-In Screening Mammograms from 7:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., Monday through Friday, with extended Thursday walk-in hours from 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. To help make the experience a little brighter, patients will also receive thoughtful giveaways. For more information, you can call the Jefferson Hospital Breast Center at 412-469-5995 or visit the center at 575 Coal Valley Rd, Suite 309, Jefferson Hills, PA 15025. The Breast Cancer Center of Excellence offers a variety of additional support through the Cancer Navigation Team, which includes nurse navigators, financial counselors, social workers, dietitians, and other professionals. They each play a role in guiding patients through every step of their cancer journey. Allegheny Health Network (AHN) and other nonprofit organizations are making efforts to increase screening rates, provide patient options, and offer emotional and practical support for those undergoing treatment. These important partners remind us that awareness must be matched with actions. What Can You Do to Help? This month, we are reminded that breast cancer is a family and community issue. Encourage your family and friends to stay attuned to changes in their bodies. Conduct self-exams and have conversations with your health care provider as an advocate for yourself and your loved ones. Encourage people within your sphere of influence to schedule screenings and encourage education. Every effort counts. Note: There are over 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, and while the disease is more common in women, it also affects men. References: Allegheny County Health Department. (n.d.). Cancer data reports: Breast cancer incidence. Retrieved from https://www.alleghenycounty.us/Services/Health-Department/Chronic-Disease-Prevention/About-Chronic-Disease/Cancer American Cancer Society. (n.d.). Breast cancer in African American women. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer.html Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, & North American Association of Central Cancer Registries. (n.d.). Cancer incidence data. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/cancer National Breast Cancer Foundation. (n.d.). Breast cancer facts. Retrieved from https://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/breast-cancer-facts National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). State cancer profiles. https://statecancerprofiles.cancer.gov
