October is breast cancer awareness month.  And we’re sad to say that black women are still dying at rates far higher than other women, and we’re often affected at younger ages and afflicted with more aggressive forms.  Add that to the fact that we’re less likely to receive treatment in the early stages and less likely to have access to quality healthcare, and you’ve got one of the most disturbing inequities on your hands.  Breast cancer is, in fact, the leading cause of cancer death in black women.  Tragic since it can often be treated if detected early enough.  We of course encourage you to urge your omthers, sisters, daughters and selves to do self-breast exams, get annual mammograms (when necessary) and donate directly to breast cancer research funds, but we also encourage you to patronize products that donate money to foundations that are working towards a cure.  Today, and for the next few days, purchase products that will not only BupGrade your swagger, but also BupGrade your people, and hopefully help save lives.  Like Sean John’s Unforgiveable for men & women, Origin’s super fabulous (we just stocked up!) Peace of Mind topical stress reliever, or one of Shopbop’s breast cancer awareness tees (or undies!).  (Photo Credit)