U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. is joining residents across the Territory and millions around the world in recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer prevention, screening, and treatment, and to supporting those whose lives have been affected by the disease.
Each year, one in eight women in the United States is diagnosed with breast cancer, contributing to a global total of 2.3 million new cases annually. According to breastcancer.org, a woman in the U.S. today has a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer over her lifetime and a 1 in 43 chance of dying from it. Nearly 30% of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer later develop metastatic breast cancer. Although mortality rates have declined in recent decades, Black women remain more likely to die from breast cancer than women of any other racial or ethnic group.
Governor Bryan emphasized the importance of continued education, screening, and access to care for all Virgin Islanders.
“Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us of our shared responsibility to support those who are fighting, to honor those we have lost, and to take proactive steps toward prevention and early detection,” Governor Bryan said. “Our Administration stands with survivors and their families and remains committed to strengthening public health efforts and resources for screening and treatment across the Virgin Islands.”
As part of that ongoing commitment, Governor Bryan recently facilitated funding through the Public Finance Authority (PFA) for the 2026 Breast and Prostate Cancer Conference, which will bring together medical professionals, advocates, and community partners to advance awareness, research, and education surrounding both diseases.
Throughout October, several activities will take place across the Territory in support of breast and prostate cancer awareness. The St. Thomas Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., in partnership with the Division of Personnel, invites all government agencies and employees to participate in “Go Pink Day” on Thursday, October 16, by wearing pink to show solidarity with breast cancer survivors and those currently battling the disease.
In addition, the Department of Health’s Chronic Diseases Division, in collaboration with the Maternal and Child Health Division, will host the annual Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Walk under the theme “Walking Together – Fighting as One.” The walks are scheduled for October 17 on St. Thomas and October 24 on St. Croix.
Governor Bryan also recognized the work of the Virgin Islands Cancer Coalition, a partnership of non-profit organizations working with the Department of Health to promote early detection and education around breast and prostate cancer.
“Together, we raise awareness around prevention, stand in solidarity with survivors, and honor the lives touched by this disease,” Governor Bryan said. “I encourage everyone—men and women alike—to learn more about the signs, perform regular self-examinations, and schedule routine screenings. Early detection saves lives.”
For more information about upcoming Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Month activities, visit the Virgin Islands Department of Health website at doh.vi.gov
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