Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama, Mathew Knowles team up to increase awareness

BIRMINGHAM — Breast cancer.

This disease can affect 1 of 8 women in their lifetime.

However, 1 in 833 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer, too.

To encourge men to overcome any feelings of embarrassment associated with seeking medical attention for breast cancer, The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama is partnering 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.

“Early detection and research are critical to saving lives,” said Knowles, a Gadsden native and music executive. 

In October 2019, 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, Knowles 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 Knowles’ urging, his doctor ordered a mammogram, which revealed that Mathew had stage 1A breast cancer. As a result, Knowles underwent his mastectomy in July 2019.

Knowles 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.

“My goal was to let others like me know about cancer risk to improve prevention,” he said. “Men do not think about their cancer risk, and Black men have historically had worse cancer outcomes.” 

Knowles 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.

Individuals interested in supporting Knowles’ and the BCRFA’s partnership can get a Breast Cancer Research specialty car tag at their local DMV office. While October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, this tag is one way to raise awareness and funding for breast cancer research throughout the year.

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 researchwi th 100% of funds received by the BCRFA from tag proceeds invested in Alabama research projects.