Heart disease remains the leading cause of mortality here in the United States with all cancers following a close second. For women, breast cancer ranks just behind skin cancer as the leading cause of cancer diagnosis. According to recent statistics released from the American Cancer Society, "in 2010 alone, an estimated 207,090 new cases of invasive breast cancer and about 40,230 deaths are expected to occur among women in the U.S."

Twenty-six years ago October was declared National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and it still remains true today. And while researchers are working ardently to find a cure, women cannot forgo doing their share to help prevent and detect this disease by being an active participant in their health care needs.

Because of the alarming statistics regarding breast cancer, the American Cancer Society is stepping up to the plate with a new movement called the Choose You Commitment. This program is designed to encourage women to put their own health needs first so that they will be in a better position to help others.

According to a survey conducted by the American Cancer Society, "95% of women stated they needed to do more to improve their health; however 58% of the women surveyed stated they put their health needs behind others." This is why this program was initiated, so that women would be given the resources to take action.

The “Choose You Commitment” program is designed to encourage women to get mammograms in addition to following a healthy diet and exercise plan, as well as limiting alcohol consumption. They can also receive online mammogram reminders, as well as a breast health e-kit--all this at no cost to those who sign up.

Since every one of us is at risk for developing breast cancer and the older we are the greater that risk is, doing what we can do to prevent this disease or even receive early diagnosis may help with our long-term prognosis. Studies have shown that early detection can make a huge difference in the survival rate of those afflicted with breast cancer. This is why the “Choose You Commitment” is such an important component to our healthy lifestyle.

Last week I had the honor to participate in the Dallas Chapter of the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5K Walk with 12 of my high school girlfriends. It just so happened that this event coincided with our 30th high school class reunion. And while I would like to say that none of my classmates ever had to battle breast cancer, sadly that is not the case. Our walk was in honor of those currently fighting this disease and for those who have lost the fight to this terrible disease. It was so moving to walk with well over 25,000 other participants and survivors, but I look forward to the day when we no longer have to walk or run in search of a cure.

Have you heard of the Choose You Program? If not, would this be something you would consider signing up for? Have you or a family member/friend been afflicted with breast cancer?