It’s October, and you’ve probably begun seeing pink ribbons on mailers and banners everywhere you look. Yes, it’s Breast Cancer Awareness month, and this is the perfect time for you to learn more about breast health and preventing breast cancer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 200,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. While it may be difficult to avoid cancer altogether, there are steps you can take to try to prevent it. You can also be vigilant about screening, which leads to earlier diagnoses and more effective treatment.

Breast Cancer Risk and Prevention

While no one knows exactly what causes breast cancer, here are some risk factors to consider.

• Age: Breast cancer is very rare for women in their 20s. More than 90 percent of diagnoses are for women age 40 and older.
• Medical history: If you have a close family member who has had breast or ovarian cancer, you are at increased risk. Further, if you have had cancer in one breast, you are more likely to develop it in the other breast.
• Motherhood: If you have never had children, or if you had them later in life (age 35 or older), your risk for breast cancer is increased.
• Medications: Some studies show that the extended use of hormone replacement therapy can be linked to breast cancer.

And although there are no sure-fire ways to prevent breast cancer, here are some guidelines for staying healthy and keeping a variety of diseases at bay:

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Stay active and shoot for 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week.
• Limit alcohol to no more than one drink a day.
• Be sure you maintain a healthy weight.
• Know your body, and watch for any changes or signs of problems.

Breast Cancer Screening and Treatment

Another key component in protecting your breast health is screening. Be sure to perform a self-exam of your breasts each month. Tell your doctor right away if you feel any lumps or see any changes in the color or texture of your breasts or nipples.

Also, make sure you schedule and keep appointments for annual mammograms. Most doctors recommend mammography for women age 40 and older and for all women with increased risk. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.

If you are diagnosed with cancer, there are many treatments available—including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation—and the prognosis is often quite good. Discuss all your options with your medical team. Also be sure to join a support group and accept all the help that is offered to you. You may be amazed by the strength you can gain from your community.

To learn more about breast health and mammography, contact Raulerson Hospital. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse® at 1-800-449-8642. Serving Okeechobee and the surrounding areas, we’re here to answer all your questions.

Sources:
Raulerson Hospital
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Susan G. Komen for the Cure

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