October 2, 2015 - California Governor Jerry Brown: In 2015, it is expected that 25,260 women in California will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 4,240 will die of the disease.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in all race/ethnic groups in California. Early detection of breast cancer improves the chances of survival. In fact, when breast cancer is diagnosed early (at a localized stage), 99 percent of women survive for five years or more.
Breast cancer mortality in California has declined by 35 percent due to the combined effects of better treatment and earlier diagnosis, and access to breast cancer screening has been shown to save lives through early detection.
Breast cancer can be detected by simple tests, such as a mammogram, before any symptoms appear. Women are encouraged to talk with their doctor about the benefits of being tested.
During the month of October 2015, community organizations and individuals throughout California will be commemorating Breast Cancer Awareness Month through a variety of public education and awareness events.
This year, for the first time, Californians may support the early detection of breast cancer through a specialty license plate, available at https://pinkplate.org/.
