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We all know the statistics. But what is the best way to prevent breast cancer from affecting us and the people we love? Awareness is the key.
In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, here are some reminders of ways to reduce your risk of breast cancer, and also methods of early detection. The American Cancer Society (ACS) says there is no concrete method to prevent breast cancer, however there are easy and effective ways to reduce risk. Risk reduction and early detection are important.
Move Your Body: Regular physical activity strengthens your immune system. ACS says that exercise benefits people of all ages, even if you begin as an older adult. Begin slowly and keep going!
Eat Healthfully: Eat a well-balanced, low-fat diet including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean sources of protein and limit alcohol intake. Choose foods that are natural and less processed. Eat organically-grown food whenever possible and incorporate antioxidant-rich foods into your meals.
Breast Feed: Breast-feeding your baby for several months may reduce the risk of breast cancer, according to the ACS.
Avoid Hormones: Studies have shown that women who avoid hormone therapy after menopause can reduce their risk of breast cancer.
Survival rates are highest for people who detect breast cancer in early stages. Here are some methods for detecting breast cancer:
Do it Yourself: It only takes 15 minutes per month to administer your own breast self-exam. Some women have discovered lumps in their breasts through their self-exam, however the ACS advises that self-exams should never be substituted for mammograms and regular exams by your doctor. Click here for step-by-step instructions and diagrams of how to examine yourself.
Get Screened: ACS recommends women ages 40 and over undergo a mammogram every year, and women in their 20s and 30s have a clinical breast exam performed as part of a regular exam by a health expert at least every three years. ACS recommends women in certain risk categories get MRIs in addition to mammograms.
Know your Body: Visit your doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your body, including a lump or swelling, skin irritation or dimpling, nipple pain or the nipple turning inward, redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin, or a discharge other than breast milk. Most of the time these breast changes are not cancer.
Remember, leading a healthy lifestyle and early detection are the keys to optimum breast health. Heres to your health!
Kristen Hallett Rzasa is the owner of InterPlay Health, LLC and Jazzercise. She is an entrepreneur, dancer, instructor, writer, yogi, golfer and avid reader.
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