OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

 

"Awareness and Prevention is the Key"

 

 

 

 

     Now is the time we need to come together and take a love one or friend by the hand and spread the awareness of this disease that affects women than men.  As you are reading this, a woman right now may have just been told she has breast cancer and didn't realize it.  You may know the early stages of detecting but others may not. 

 

     Unfortunately, I had a love one, a grandmother, who died of breast cancer.  I need your help in spreading the awareness.

 

What is Breast Cancer?

 

Breast Cancer is a malignant tumor that forms in the cells of the breast.  It can spread to other areas of the body.  The disease occurs mostly in women but men can get it too.  Click here to read more about breast cancer in men http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/179457.php

  

 What are the signs and symptoms of Breast Cancer?

 

A lump in the breast or thickened tissue in the breast.  Please be aware majority of lumps are not cancerous but I highly recommend for you to get it check out as soon as possible.  (Ladies and Gentlemen it's imperative we do self exams on the breasts every now and then.  So rub and feel those breasts and watch for any unusual appearances)

 

Unusual appearances?

 

• Lumps
• Skin dimpling
• Change in skin color or texture
• Change in how the nipple looks
• Clear or bloody fluid that leaks out of the nipple

What are the causes of Breast Cancer?

 

We are not sure what causes the disease but we know there are some risk factors that can impact in developing the disease.

•  Age - as a women gets older the higher the risk.
• Genetics - close relative who has had breast cancer or ovarian cancer. Women who carry the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are at higher risk.
• History of breast cancer - women who had it.
• Having certain types of breast lumps.
• Dense breast tissue* - women with more dense breast tissue have a greater chance of developing the disease.
• Estrogen exposure - had menstrual earlier in age or entered menopause later than usual have a higher risk.
• Obesity.
• Height - taller women.
• Alcohol consumption - more alcohol a women drinks the more the risk.
• Radiation exposure.
• HRT - Hormone Replacement Therapy.
• Certain jobs.
• Cosmetic implants.

What to do if you have any signs and symptoms?

 

See a doctor right away.  The doctor should conduct the following diagnostic tests and procedures for breast cancer:

 

• Breast exam - doctor will check both breasts - searching and feeling any signs of lumps and discharge.
• X-ray Mammogram.



 

Unfortunately, there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer.  We do know body weight, physical activity, and diet are linked to breast cancer.  But there are ways you can reduce your risk. 

 

• Healthy eating lifestyle - A diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits.
• Physical activity -  Exercise regularly.  Maintain your weight (BMI - Body Mass Index)
• Avoid smoking.
• Avoid or limit alcohol intake.
• Avoid hormone therapy after menopause.
• Get tested regularly.

     Over a month ago I had my first mammogram.  What a procedure it was! Breasts were squeezed so tight.  It was worth the discomfort because I found out my results.  The results from my mammogram exam showed normal but my breasts are dense.  (So, basically I have to keep up with my exams and watch for signs).

 

     In conclusion we all must be diligent in monitoring our health to ensure a positive outcome.

 

 

                      Please continue to help spread awareness.

 

                                                                                        Namaste