Get Screened for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

As I’m sure you already know…October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! One in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime. Men are also at risk for breast cancer, though their risk if lower at about1 in 1,000. Unfortunately, breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women.

Now you may be asking yourself what you should be doing this month to help yourself and/or loved ones. This month is the perfect time to learn about the risk factors, symptoms to be aware of and prevention.

Risk Factors

Although anyone can develop cancer, there are certain factors that increase your risk – both modifiable and non-modifiable risks.

Non-modifiable risks:

Genetics –If your grandmother, mother, aunt or sister (or maybe dad/grandfather) has had breast cancer, you are at a much greater risk and should discuss this with your doctor.

Gender – Women are at a much greater risk than males.

Age – The older you are (i.e. post-menopause), the higher your risk.

Modifiable risks:

Alcohol Consumption – Studies have shown an increase in risk with an increase in alcohol consumption.

Smoking – You already know the increased risk of lung disease/cancer when it comes to smoking, but it also increases your risk for breast cancer.

Diet – Although diet alone will not cause or cure cancer, a diet high in saturated fat, refined carbohydrates, added sugar and low in fruits and vegetables and whole grains will put you at risk as your body will not be functioning at its best.

Symptoms to Look For

Now that you know the risk factors, take a look at the list below for symptoms to keep an eye out for. If you are experiencing anything listed below, call your doctor to set up an appointment for a check-up.

Skin swelling or redness
Change in breast shape
Nipple discharge (other than breast milk)
Pain in or on the breast
Skin flaking or dimpling can be other possible warning signs of breast cancer, according to the Cancer Treatment Centers of America.

Even if you don’t have any of the symptoms above or many/any risk factors, it’s still important to get regular screening.The recommended age to start getting mammograms ranges from 40 to 50, but I encourage you to discuss with your doctor when the best time for you is to get screening!

7 Tips to Reduce Your Risk

After all the information above, you may be asking yourself “what now?”. Well, it’s best to take strides to lower your risk of breast cancer!

1. Limit alcohol. The American Cancer Society recommends that women drink no more than 1 alcoholic drink/day.

2. Quit smoking. Speak with your doctor on the best ways for you to quit smoking.

3. Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity, particularly after menopause, can greatly increase your risk of breast cancer. It’s best to stop dieting and instead, let your inner wisdom guide your food choices.

4. Be physically active.In one study from the Women’s Health Initiative, as little as 1 ¼ to 2 ½ hours per week of brisk walking reduces your risk by 18% and 10 hours of brisk walking a week reduces your risk even more! Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly.

5. Add more cruciferous vegetables to your meals. Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, kale and cabbage are considered cruciferous vegetables and they contain indole compounds. Indole compounds have been linked to lower rates of cancer and may even prevent tumor growth.

6. Choose foods that are orange-red in color. Carotenoids are a phytochemical found in orange-red fruits and vegetables like carrots, cantaloupes and butternut squash, and has been linked to lower rates of cancer.

7. Eat more foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This specific fatty acid has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce your risk of cancer and tumor growth as well. Mackerel, salmon, cod and walnuts are all considered good sources of this fatty acid.

This October wear pink in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and get screened for prevention!

Your Turn To Action:What will you do this month to spread awareness around breast cancer? Let me know in the comments below!