In 2013 an estimated 232,000 cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed among women in the United States.

Approximately 39,620 women are anticipated to die from breast cancer this year in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society.

More than 2.9 million women in this country have a history of breast cancer.

It’s something that can strike anyone, but it doesn’t have to be a death sentence.

Early detection and treatment is key.

It’s been drilled into me from an early age to be aware of my body and the importance of screening.

Breast cancer runs in my family.

Both my grandmothers on my mother’s and father’s sides of the family were breast cancer survivors.

Most recently, my aunt was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. My mother and her sisters get annual screenings.

It’s scary to think about, but necessary to remember.

As we recognized National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s important to recognize the strides in treatment and prevention we’re achieving at a local level.

In this edition of The Examiner you will find a story on page 8 highlighting the recent decision by Whidbey General Hospital to purchase a new Breast MRI machine and software.

The new technology is proven to better detect and diagnose breast cancer. The purchase of this new system really was the culmination of a community effort.

The Whidbey General Hospital Foundation set a fundraising goal this year for this project and, with the help of business and private donations, it proved successful.

The community rallied for this improved service, now let’s take advantage of having this technology available on the island.

Be proactive about your health.

— Megan Hansen is editor of The Whidbey Examiner. She can be reached at mhansen@whidbeynewsgroup.com