October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and that means it’s time to start thinking about the health of your breasts. Whether you’re male or female, you have breasts, and it’s important to be aware of them. This year, make a commitment to being breast aware. That means knowing how your breasts normally look and feel, and being alert for any changes. If you notice anything unusual, don’t delay in getting it checked out by a medical professional. It’s also important to be breast aware in terms of your risk for breast cancer. If you have a family history of the disease, you may be at increased risk, and it is best to talk to you doctor about your risk and what you can do to negate those risks.
Here are some action steps you can take to help support breast health.
1. Perform monthly breast self-exams.
2. Schedule regular mammograms.
3. Be aware of any changes in your breasts, and report them to your doctor.
4. Limit your alcohol intake.
5. Maintain a healthy weight.
6. Exercise regularly.
7. Eat a healthy diet. (Dr. Josh Axe has some great ideas https://draxe.com/health/best-foods-for-breast-health/ )
When it comes to breast cancer, knowledge is power. The more you know about the disease, the better equipped you are to deal with it if you or someone you love is diagnosed.
Here are some facts about breast cancer that everyone should know.
1. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women.
2. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women.
3. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
4. There are different types of breast cancer, and each type is treated differently.
5. Breast cancer can occur in men as well as women.
6. Breast cancer is not just one disease – it is a group of diseases with different causes.
7. Genetics play a role in some cases of breast cancer.
8. Breast cancer is treatable, and there are many different treatment options available.
9. There is no one “right” way to treat breast cancer – each person’s treatment plan is individualized.
10. There is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk. (Please see the actions step above).
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with breast cancer, know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you through this difficult time.
Here are some organizations that can provide support and information.
1. Susan G. Komen
2. National Breast Cancer Foundation
3. Breast Cancer Research Foundation
4. American Cancer Society
5. Avon Foundation for Women
This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, make a commitment to being breast aware. It could save your life.
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Be well,
​Coach Ann