Breast Cancer Awareness: Empowering Stories and All the Facts

PEOPLE and Verywell Health teamed up to bring you important information about breast cancer and powerful interviews with women with the condition, from beginning stages to metastasis

Alex Apatoff

Published on October 2, 2024 12:57PM EDT

Despite many advances in breast cancer treatment in the past few decades, which have prolonged life expectancy and improved the quality of life of those with the condition, the disease remains incredibly common, with rising rates of diagnosis among young women.

And even with a focus on early detection, "nearly 30 percent of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer will see their disease metastasize and spread to other organs," according to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. That means the cancer cells which originated in the breast can spread to the lungs, bones and brain, a much more severe diagnosis.

However, as PEOPLE Editor in Chief Wendy Naugle points out in her conversation with Verywell Health's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sohaib Imtiaz, there are reasons to be hopeful when facing a metastatic diagnosis, which is why we're highlighting the latest research and sharing the stories of women who are living with metastatic breast cancer today.

From useful questions and terms to arm yourself with when headed into a potentially daunting conversation with a doctor, to powerful interviews with moms who are parenting through their treatment for metastatic cancer, PEOPLE and Verywell Health's People Like Us condition center is designed to equip you with information, insight and hope.

Letter from the Editor

A Letter from the Editor About Metastatic Breast Cancer

The Real Housewives of Miami star just underwent her second surgery for breast cancer, and shares how she's doing now.

Undergoing Treatment in the Spotlight

Guerdy Abraira attends Ese Azenabor Spring 2025 at 610 Loft & Garden on September 06, 2024 in New York City.

Guerdy Abraira Opens Up About Her Recent Breast Cancer Surgery: 'I'm Guerdy 2.0.—I'm On the Other Side'

Read inspiring, moving stories from women across the country who are undergoing treatment for metastatic breast cancer, while parenting at the same time.

Parenting with Metastatic Breast Cancer

Lindsey Parr Gritton, her husband Spencer and daughters, Saylor 4 and Savannah Grace 2, August 31, 2024, Cumming, GA

Diagnosed with Breast Cancer while Pregnant, One Mom Was Told She Had Months to Live. Now, 'I'm Thriving'

Jamil Rivers, breast cancer patient, from Philadelphia.

How This Mom of 3 Prioritizes Self-Care While Treating Breast Cancer: 'I'm Trying to Be Here as Long As I Can'

Mom with Metastatic Cancer on the Philosophy That Gets Her Through: 'People All Have Difficulties. Mine Happens to Be Cancer'

Another mom undergoing breast cancer shares her real-life insight as to what's been helpful to her and her family, for those looking to support a loved one through their treatment.

How to Help

How to Best Help a Friend Going Through Cancer Treatment, According to a Mom Undergoing Chemo Right Now

What to know about metastatic breast cancer, right now.

From the Editors of Verywell Health

A serious female doctor gestures as she discusses healthcare options with a mature female patient.

A Guide to Common Terms and Helpful Questions to Ask at Your Breast Cancer Appointment

When Cancer Spreads: What to Know About Metastatic Breast Cancer

Patient undergoing an ultrasound of the breast to check for Breast cancer

What Are the First Signs of Metastatic Breast Cancer?

One woman who was denied a mammogram because she was deemed not to be at high risk now is fighting metastatic cancer. She shares her story in hopes of inspiring others to push for the screenings they deserve.