Cancer has touched nearly everyone’s life, and eighth-grade students at Heir Force Community School are learning more about the disease from medical experts.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer for women in the United States. It's also why it’s now recommended that all women get a breast cancer risk assessment when they turn 25, especially those with a family history. 

A recent study from the Cleveland Clinic found genetics may play a bigger role than originally thought when it comes to melanoma. According to Joshua Arbesman, MD, a dermatologist and researcher for Cleveland Clinic, they looked at different genes in individuals with a history of melanoma. So, why is this important? He said it could provide more insight into who is at risk for not just melanoma but other cancers too. In addition, it could expand who is eligible for genetic testing. Currently, physicians rarely order genetic testing for individuals with a personal history of melanoma, and insurance companies often don’t cover it. And that’s due to the previous lack of research in this area.

New research shows a higher number of younger women diagnosed with breast cancer are getting genetic testing done.