New York, NY- Congressman Charles Rangel released the following statement on Breast Cancer Awareness Month to shed light on the harsh realities of breast cancer and to provide support for those battling the disease.

"Approximately one in eight American women will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime, making it the second leading cause of cancer deaths for women. October serves as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in order to encourage further research and attentiveness to this vital health concern.

Although death rates have been decreasing due to treatment advancements, it is critical that we invest in further research to combat this illness. We recognize that among individuals under the age of 45, African American women are more likely to develop breast cancer compared to any other ethnic group. That is why I urge women in our district to become more aware of breast cancer.

We are lucky to live in a state that is home to institutions that understand the magnitude of this health issue and have implemented supportive programs. Adelphi University offers a New York Statewide Breast Cancer Hotline and Support Program designed to offer emotional support as well as provide vital health information. Because of the very nature of breast cancer as an illness, survivor-run and community-based organizations seem to be the best way to impact patients. The New York State Breast Cancer Support and Education Network (NYBCSEN) employs this strategy and reaches over 100,000 New Yorkers each year with its education and support services. The NYBCSEN fights everyday for the women of New York in order to relieve at least some of the hardship they face.

Among its many other benefits, President Obama's Affordable Care Act that I proudly sponsored extends life-saving breast cancer detection screenings to all women by eliminating co-pays. Preventative cancer services are of the utmost importance to women in this country and I will continue to support and promote policies that enhance them. I believe that no woman should be denied access to a mammogram or other crucial cancer screening because she cannot afford it.

In 2011, upwards of 2.6 million Americans became official cancer survivors, which is a statistic that the healthcare community should be proud of. But we also know that research funding and support services must continue in order to further battle and ultimately cure breast cancer. I am proud to stand with all women and caretakers in their fight to beat this disease and ultimately find a cure."