This year the American Cancer Society estimates that 203,500 new cases of female breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2002 and 40,000 women will die from the disease. In fact, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer for American women. However, it is known that early detection and prompt treatment can reduce breast cancer deaths by one-third in women 50 years and older.

I am joining with mayors across the country to promote National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October and to observe the third Friday in October as National Mammography Day. We are calling upon everyone in our communities-employers, physicians, churches, clubs and other organizations-to encourage women of all ages to obtain information about screening and mammography and to seek appropriate services. Our efforts are part of the Mayors' Campaign Against Breast Cancer that the US Conference of Mayors is conducting under a five-year cooperation agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

We in Glen Cove and the surrounding communities are fortunate to have the Glen Cove CARES (Cancer Awareness Resource Education Source) foundation in our midst. Its members provide informative seminars and awareness programs whose focus is on the importance of breast self-examination and positive health choices for women of all ages. Glen Cove CARES and County Legislator Muellers' office have coordinated the location of the Nassau County mammogram van here in our city. Please call the foundation at 759-0887 for more information regarding the numerous activities they provide.

Let me add that men can be at risk for breast cancer. The American Cancer Society estimates that 1,500 new cases of male breast cancer will be diagnosed in 2002, and that 200 men will die of the disease. Remember "where there is awareness there is hope."

Mary Ann Holzkamp

Mayor, City of Glen Cove