NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. --   October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, during which all women are encouraged to perform self-exams, schedule mammograms and place importance on breast health. According to the American Cancer Society, over 250,000 women will have been diagnosed with breast cancer by the end of 2017. This estimate translates to roughly one in every eight women. Fortunately, improvements in early detection tests have reduced the mortality rate of patients by 38 percent. (U.S. Air Force graphic by Master Sgt. Heidi West)