The Breast Cancer Coalition of Rochester's mission is to make eradication of breast cancer a priority through education and advocacy, to empower women and men to participate fully in decisions relating to breast cancer, to provide support to those coping with a breast cancer diagnosis, and to promote and focus research into the causes, prevention, treatment and cure of breast cancer. Breast Cancer is a serious health problem in New York State, with more than 12,000 new cases and 3,500 deaths reported each year. Breast cancer represents over 28% of all malignancies among women. It is the number one cause of death in women between the ages of 30 and 54. At this time, one in eight women can expect to be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime. Currently, Monroe County ranks first for all new diagnoses of breast cancer in New York State. This high rate of breast cancer and the high mortality rate for women, especially younger and minority women, has motivated us to become educated about this disease so that we, in turn, can educate others. We are further motivated by a concern for the future health of our mothers, daughters, granddaughters, sisters, nieces and friends.