Many words have been written along the years about this delicate yet frightening subject. Journalists, columnists, editorials have gave this subject the attention deserved. Magazine article about breast cancer try to raise the degree of awareness about the disease among readers. The campaigns are many and the efforts are impressive. Access to information is a basic human right. In case of breast cancer information is essential: women should know as much as possible about this form of cancer including treatment and cure. A breast cancer diagnosis in an early stage is less difficult to fight and win in the end.

One of the best magazine articles on breast cancer made the cover of Time Magazine in October 2007. A couple of years have passed by but the article remains as actual today as it did back then in 2007.



The article starts with the story of a Chinese woman whose lump the size of a marble changed her life. In her view breast cancer diagnosis meant a death sentence. Why start with a story from China? The next lines talk about the novelty this form of cancer was in the eyes of both patients and doctors in some developing countries. Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia and Latin  America are now facing a growing “popularity”. Unfortunately, advanced treatment is available only to the Western (the term western comprises the more evolved, capitalist countries) populations. Clinics, specialists, treatment are not at the reach of patients in less developed societies.



The cultural impact opens another discussion. Used to pink ribbons and awareness movements, some don’t realize that in other countries the disease is not just a secret but it’s a shameful one. For example, in India breast cancer is believed to be contagious while in Egypt the first fear after finding out the diagnosis is: what if my husband leaves me?. Others are very reluctant in showing or even talking about their breasts.

The investigation made by Time journalists revealed not just the misinformation but also the lack of information about breast cancer.

Problems also involve money. In some countries mammograms are the equivalent of a monthly income. Chemotherapy sessions are closely connected with money as well. In some countries governments, nongovernmental organizations and private hospitals collaborate in eradicating and finding possible solutions for such problems. Efforts include better information and trying to change the view these women have upon on breast cancer.

The article is accompanied by a list of the novelty in treatment and possible cures. The article wants to draw the attention upon this world wide phenomenon that is spreading more and more. The number of breast cancer victims grows from one year to another. The most important thing these women should learn is how to deal with it, how to cope and how to fight. Without having to keep it a shameful secret.