Each October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings attention to a disease that affects millions of people across the world.
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women and a leading cause of cancer-related death.
While awareness efforts have made a meaningful impact over the years, there’s still more to understand, and more we can do to protect ourselves and others.
2025 SewPINK Kick-off
Each October, ByAnnie and sewists around the world participate in our Cancer Awareness Blog Hop.
This blog is the first for 2025, and we appreciate your joining us.
Be sure to stay tuned throughout October and help raise awareness year-round!
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast start growing uncontrollably. It most often develops in the ducts or lobules and can spread to other parts of the body if not caught early.
There are several types and subtypes. The kind of breast cancer someone has affects how it’s treated.
Men get breast
cancer, too
It’s rare, but it happens, and being unaware or stigma can delay diagnosis and treatment.
Dense breast tissue can hide tumors on mammograms
Many states now require healthcare providers to inform patients if they have dense breasts so they can consider additional screening, like ultrasound or MRI.
Most
breast cancers
are not inherited
Only about 5–10% are linked to gene mutations like BRCA1 or BRCA2. The majority of cases occur in people with no strong family history.
Progress and Disparities
Thanks to research and advances in treatment, survival rates for breast cancer, especially when caught early, have improved significantly. Treatments are becoming more personalized, and new therapies are offering hope even in more advanced cases.
However, equity must remain a central focus. In the United States, Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer than White women, despite similar rates of diagnosis.
Rural communities, low-income patients, and people without insurance also face barriers to timely and quality care. Closing these gaps is just as important as finding the next breakthrough treatment.
Prevention
Taking proactive steps can make a significant difference in the early detection and prevention of breast cancer.
- Know what's normal for your body: Familiarize yourself with how your breasts typically look and feel so you can notice any unusual changes, such as lumps, swelling, skin dimpling, or nipple discharge, and report them to your doctor.
- Get regular screenings: Mammograms are the most effective tool for early detection. Most guidelines recommend starting between ages 40 and 50, though your personal risk may call for a different schedule.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Keep a healthy weight, stay physically active, limit alcohol, and avoid smoking to help reduce your risk.
- Understand your family history: If breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family, consider genetic counseling and discuss earlier or more frequent screenings with your doctor.
What is your risk?
Cancer is unique to every individual. Speak to your physician about your family history and ask if you should pursue genetic counseling for a better understanding of your risks. The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute offers a risk assessment quiz to print out and bring to your next appointment.
Breast Cancer Awareness
"Black women are 41% more likely to die from breast cancer than White women, despite being less likely to be diagnosed with it.”
-American Cancer Society
Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women
Month:
October
Color:
Pink
Sewing For Breast Cancer Awareness
Sewing is a great activity to help spread awareness. Amazing conversations can happen among friends, reminders to get screened and do self exams can be shared, and your projects can highlight it all.
This year, we made a special set of our Drop Zone pattern, featuring the pieced ribbon from Sewfinity and a series of beautiful pink fabrics in Riley Blake Design's Confetti Cotton Solids.
Final Thoughts
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is more than a ribbon. It’s a reminder to educate ourselves, take preventive action, advocate for better care, and support those facing the disease. With continued research, awareness, and compassion, we can save more lives and move closer to a future without breast cancer.
Want to make a project to support breast cancer awareness? Use the chart below to find solids from your favorite fabric companies.
#SewPINK Initiative
The #SewPink Initiative's mission is to raise awareness for cancer throughout the year.
Efforts culminate in an annual blog hop during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month to promote self-care, awareness, early detection and support for those affected by breast cancer.
To learn more and see the calendar of events visit:
To learn more and see the calendar of events visit:
Disclaimer
Any and all content produced and displayed by ByAnnie.com is for educational and informative purposes only; it should not and does not replace a diagnosis by a medical professional. Statements made by ByAnnie.com are not medical advice. If any questions arise, contact your doctor or other qualified professional. Unless stated otherwise, the opinions and statements made are not by medical professionals. Reliance on and usage of ANY information from ByAnnie.com is done solely at your own risk. None of the staff members of ByAnnie are, or claim to be, medical professionals. We urge you to consult with a medical professional to answer any questions or concerns that you may have. Stay healthy, stay safe, and happy stitching!
Resources
#SewPINK: Breast Cancer