Susan G. Komen Seattle Race for the Cure is June 7th

June 3, 5:30 PMSeattle Women's Health ExaminerKellie Fielding

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Susan G. Komen Foundation (www.prevention.com)

 On Sunday, June 7th, Seattle will take part in the annual Susan G. Komen “Race for the Cure”. The event is a 5K run/walk and this is Seattle’s 16th anniversary taking part in the race. The Susan G. Komen Foundation “Race for the Cure” is held in several cities across the nation to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. “More than 4,000 women in Washington State will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year”, said Komen Puget Sound Executive Director, Mona Locke.

The Seattle race will begin at Qwest Field with an honorary Survivor Breakfast and an early Kid’s Run. The course will continue from Qwest Field down the Highway 99 Viaduct. The Honorary Co-chairs selected for this year’s event are retired Seattle Mariner and fan favorite, Edgar Martinez, along with his wife, Holli. The 2009 “Race for the Cure” Grand Marshal will be Seattle Police Department Lieutenant and breast cancer survivor Robin Clark. At the end of the race, there will also be a parade on the stage at Qwest Field. It will be a celebration for those who have survived breast cancer and also a tribute to those who did not.

According to the American Cancer Society Facts & Figures Report for 2007-2008, 89% of the women who are diagnosed with breast cancer will survive for at least five years. If there is early detection and the cancer is only found in the breast, the five year survival rate increases to close to 98%. This type of cancer is not gender specific, and it is important to be aware that men are also diagnosed with breast cancer every year.

If you are a female and are age 40, or older, it is vital that you have an annual mammogram. If you are younger than 40 and there is a history of breast cancer in your family, talk to your doctor to see if you should begin this type of screening at a younger age. Also remember to take the time each month to do your self-breast exam. They only take a few minutes to complete and they are a critical part of maintaining your health.