By Maria – Paula

 Research into particular breast cancer risk factors has received a $512,284 grant from the National Cancer Institute.Congressman A. Donald McEachin (D), a recipient of the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation’s 2021 Legislative Impact Award, announced the donation to VCU.
Being a co-sponsor of the Metastatic Breast Cancer Access to Care Act ( H.R. 3183), and the Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act ( H.R. 1946), McEachin has been a gallant soldier in the war against breast cancer.
“Every breast cancer diagnosis is one too many. Thankfully, VCU tirelessly pursues new, groundbreaking cancer research,” said Rep
McEachin. “This funding will help support research into various risk factors associated with breast cancer, which is vital to the
understanding and treatment of the disease. I am pleased to see this federal funding being delivered to such a deserving institution.”
A report by the American Cancer Society projects an estimated diagnosis of 7,600 women in Virginia with breast cancer in 2022 only. Considered the second most common cancer and the second dominating cause of cancer death in women, the disease has a 99% survival rate if detected early.

Although most often found in women, men can also get breast cancer. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC), reports that about 1 out of every 100 breast cancers diagnosed in the United States is found
in a man.

Breast care resources available across VA include screening and diagnostic mammograms, breast MRI and ultrasound, genetic testing and counselling, and cancer treatment. Women aged 45 years and older are at high risk, though some women may choose to start screening for mammograms as early as age 40.

As we approach October, Breast Cancer Month, VA still boasts of being the nation’s health care systems leader in providing mammograms.
Residents are therefore encouraged to consult their primary care providers about screening for early detection and treatment.