October is Dignity & Respect Month but it is also National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer impacts the lives of almost 1.3 million women annually and is the most prevalent cancer in the world today. While the causes of breast cancer are unknown, let us use this month to change the tide of this disease. Here are a few things you can do courtesy of Susan G. Komen for the Cure:
1. Know your risk
• Talk to your family to learn about your family health history
• Talk to your doctor about your personal risk of breast cancer2. Get screened
• Ask your doctor which screening tests are right for you if you are at higher risk
• Have a mammogram every year starting at age 40 if you are at average risk
• Have a clinical breast exam at least every 3 years starting at 20, and every year starting at 403. Know what is normal for you and see your health care provider right away if you notice any of these breast changes:
• Lump, hard knot or thickening
• Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening
• Change in the size or shape of the breast
• Dimpling or puckering of the skin
• Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple
• Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast
• Nipple discharge that starts suddenly
• New pain in one spot that doesn't go away4. Make healthy lifestyle choices
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Add exercise into your routine
• Limit alcohol intake
Show yourself respect by protecting your health. Find out more information about this disease and its treatment, click here.
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