 Globally, there were 2.3 million women diagnosed with breast cancer and 685,000 deaths in the year 2020, making it the most prevalent cancer in the world. In St. Lucia, breast cancer is the number one cause of death in women and also the main cause of premature death in women. Most of these diagnoses are made in women from the age group of 45 to 55 years. The risk of breast cancer is increased with increasing age, obesity, harmful use of alcohol, family history of breast cancer, history of radiation, exposure, reproductive history, tobacco use and post-menopausal hormone therapy. Approximately half of breast cancers develop in women who have no identifiable breast cancer risk factor other than being female and over 40 years of age. The symptoms of breast cancer can include a breast lump or thickening often without pain, the changing size, shape or appearance of the breast, dimpling, redness, pitting or other changes in the skin, the changing nipple appearance or the skin surrounding the nipple, abnormal or bloody fluid from the nipple. The treatment for breast cancer depends on the subtype of cancer and how much it has spread outside of the breast to the lymph nodes or to other parts of the body. The treatment includes surgery to remove the breast tumor, radiation therapy to reduce the recurrence risk in the breast and surrounding tissues, medication to kill cancer cells and prevent spread including hormonal therapies, chemotherapy or targeted biological therapies. Healthy lifestyles, regular screening and early detection are key in improving the outcome of the breast cancer diagnosis. The Ministry of Health together with the rest of the world observes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and intensifies public health education to improve the awareness among women of the importance of screening, the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and understand the importance of early detection and treatment. We anticipate that if accurate information, more women would consult medical practitioners when breast cancer is first suspected and before the cancer is advanced. Early diagnosis needs to be linked to effective and timely cancer treatment that requires a specialized cancer care. This October, we invite you to join the Ministry of Health in reducing the impact of breast cancer by doing the following. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, healthy foods, regular exercise, adequate sleep, reduce stress, reduce alcohol intake and avoid smoking. Visit your nearest wellness center to access screening. Learn to perform monthly breast health exams. Our team at the nearest wellness center or your physician can provide guidance. Visit your healthcare provider with any concerns noted. Meet the women in your household, in your workplace, your place of worship and friends to do the same. Contact the Ministry of Health to schedule an education session, breast screening or health phase for your team. Participate in pink Fridays, wear pink every Friday in October or decorate your work stations in pink to raise the awareness and show support to our women, men and families who are affected by breast cancer. Create and support Kick for a Cure which is a special event held during the month of October to launch the Veterans Football Championship. Together, we can save the lives of our loved ones.