Washington -- In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, U.S. Senator Robert Menendez is reminding New Jerseyans about the importance of early detection of the disease which, aside from non-melanoma skin cancer, is the most common cancer among women in the United States. New Jersey has one of the highest incidence rates of breast cancer in the nation along with one of the highest morbidity rates associated with breast cancer.

"It's projected that one out of every 10 New Jersey women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. These statistics are painful. Mothers and sisters and daughters are struggling to survive this disease across the country -- a disease that is treatable through proper education, early diagnosis, and aggressive therapy. That's why I have fought for - and will continue fighting for - resources women need to have regular screenings," said Menendez. "This October, let us renew our commitment as a country to find a cure to this devastating disease. It is also important to remember that Breast Cancer Awareness Month cannot just be a 31 day event -- we must take action every day of the year if we have a hope of increasing treatment and saving lives."

According to the American Cancer Society, in 2012 it is estimated that there will be 290,170 new cases of breast cancer (both invasive and non-invasive) among women in the United States. Breast cancer can also affect men. In fact, it is estimated that in 2012 some 2,190 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among men in the United States and 410 will die from the disease.

However, the five-year relative survival rate is higher among those with an earlier stage at diagnosis. This is why Senator Menendez has called the Affordable Care Act "a warrior in the fight against breast cancer." This law has given more than 1.4 million New Jersey women access to the preventive services needed to detect the disease early - at no additional cost.

"While some are using the Affordable Care Act as a political tool, the fact of the matter is that this is legislation is quite literally saving lives. That's why I will fight to ensure the same law that gives women better control of their health care, while also lowering health care costs, is here to stay," Menendez added.

Senator Menendez has long been an advocate for eradicating cancer and as such received the American Cancer Society's National Distinguished Advocacy Award, the organization's highest advocacy honor. Menendez is also a co-sponsor of the Accelerating the End of Breast Cancer Act (S. 3237) that would create a commission to identify promising research, encourage partnerships between government and the private sector, and create opportunities for trans-disciplinary collaboration that may advance the mission of ending breast cancer. Menendez also signed a letter in support of funding for the Breast Cancer Research Program at the Department of Defense for fiscal year 2013.

To find out if you qualify for a free or low-cost mammogram and where to get screened click here;

Click here for FAQs about expanded preventative health care coverage for women and Click Here for more information on the Affordable Care Act;

For more general information on breast cancer click here.

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