Research shows that about 1 in 8 U.S. women – 13% – will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. 

While the lifetime risk of getting breast cancer is much lower for men (1 in 833), it often goes undiagnosed much longer because of a lack of awareness. It is crucial for both men and women to take an active role in monitoring their health and recognizing any potential warning signs or changes that could indicate the presence of breast cancer.

Founded in 1996, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama (BCRFA) is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to find a cure for breast cancer by funding promising breast cancer research in Alabama and raising community awareness and funding for that research. BCRFA funds promote a comprehensive approach to battling breast cancer by promoting collaborative and innovative research to help diagnose, treat, prevent, and eradicate the disease. Thanks to generous community support, BCRFA’s lifetime investment in life-saving research totals over $16 million. All funding stays in Alabama, but the impact is worldwide.

“Men Get Breast Cancer Too” – Mathew Knowles

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama is proud to partner with Mathew Knowles, a male breast cancer survivor and the father of Beyoncé and Solange. The partnership aims to raise awareness about breast cancer, emphasize the importance of early detection, and underscore the critical role of research in saving lives.

In October 2019, music executive Mathew Knowles revealed to the world that he carries a Stage 1A BRCA2 gene mutation and underwent treatment for male breast cancer. After noticing small drops of blood on his shirt for several days, Mathew decided to consult a doctor for further examination. During his training selling medical imaging equipment, he had learned this was a warning sign for male breast cancer. At Mathew’s urging, his doctor ordered a mammogram, which revealed that Mathew had stage 1A breast cancer. As a result, Mathew underwent his mastectomy in July of 2019.

5 years later, Mathew continues to advocate and raise awareness for male breast cancer by showing men the importance of prevention and encouraging them to be their own advocates. Mathew Knowles explains, “My goal was to let others like me know about cancer risk to improve prevention. Men do not think about their cancer risk, and Black men have historically had worse cancer.” 

Mathew continues to increase awareness of breast cancer specifically in men. He aims to highlight the significance of regular check-ups and to encourage men to overcome any feelings of embarrassment associated with seeking medical attention for breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama is honored to collaborate with Mathew Knowles, a passionate advocate for breast cancer research and a native of Gadsden, Alabama. As someone who understands the significance of the funds generated by the foundation’s specialty tag, Mr. Knowles brings a personal commitment to the BCRFA’s cause. “Early detection and research are critical to saving lives,” says Knowles.

 

How Alabamians Can Make an Impact 

All funds received by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama through Breast Cancer Research specialty tag registrations help drive Alabama research, improving outcomes for the 1 in 8 women and 1 in 833 men diagnosed with breast cancer. Since its founding, the BCRFA has invested over $15 million to advance lifesaving, innovative breast cancer research across Alabama. The Breast Cancer Research specialty tag is a key source of funding for that research. 100% of funds received by the BCRFA from tag proceeds are invested in top Alabama research projects.

Individuals interested in supporting Knowles’ and the BCRFA’s partnership can get a Breast Cancer Research specialty tag at the local DMV office. Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which occurs every October, has come and gone, but this tag is one way to raise awareness and funding for breast cancer research throughout the year. The BCRFA’s partnership with Mathew Knowles is featured in their latest Breast Cancer Research tag PSA.

Additionally, Alabamians can remember BCRFA in their end-of-the-year giving plans. When an individual or organization invests in local breast cancer research, they fuel research breakthroughs from Huntsville to Mobile. Visit BCRFA to make a donation that makes a difference in the fight against breast cancer.