Texas First Lady Anita Perry joined several breast cancer survivors at the State Capitol Tuesday, who shared stories of survival. The event came just ahead of the beginning of breast cancer awareness month -- October.

Among American women, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed form of the disease.

"This year an estimated 182,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in the United States," Perry said. "And more than 40,000 are expected to lose their battle with this dreadful disease."

Experts say there are several steps women can take to reduce their risk of breast cancer, including maintaining a healthy body weight, getting regular exercise, reducing alcohol consumption and undergoing a yearly mammogram, beginning at age 40.

"Our best protection against this disease is early detection," Perry said. "I encourage all Texans to renew their commitment to keep each other accountable. We must be diligent and mindful to make self exams, mammograms and regular physician visits part of our routine."