According to the American Breast Cancer Society in US this year one woman in eight either has or will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. In addition, 1,600 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 400 will die this year. If detected early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 95%.

But do you know how many Bangladeshi women and men will develop breast cancer this year? If the answer is no, you are not alone. We nor the journals published by the health professionals serving community in Bangladesh is aware of the statistics that is creeping up every year. In October 2006, when we first published our article on Breast Cancer among Bangladeshi Women, it was alarming to find out the lack of information on Bangladeshi women and men who are diagnosed with the cancer. We started to hear shocking stories from our friends about how the loved ones were left feeling helpless once they were diagnosed with the cancer. They were completely unprepared feeling hopeless and helpless not knowing where to turn for support when they were diagnosed. This year we want to change that hopeless and helpless feeling of those individuals who are either diagnosed or at the risk of developing breast cancer. We want to empower our loved ones with coping skills and show that we care and that we will stand by them as they fight this difficult phase of their lives. And we are asking your help to show the support by taking simple steps:You can learn about the cancer Tell your loved ones who are over forty to do a mammogramTell your doctor to guide you if you are at risk of developing cancerWe want to hear from you, and share your thoughts with us:If you are a breast cancer survivorIf your family member or friends been diagnosed with breast cancerIf you have lost someone from breast cancerIf you have ideas on how to create a support network for breast cancer survivor, share with us.Resources related topic: The ABCs of Breast Cancer Guide