Think Pink & Raise Breast Cancer Awareness

It’s October, so… We Wear Pink To Raise Breast Cancer Awareness!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month – an annual campaign to raise breast cancer awareness. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women and the second-most common cancer overall.  In 2014, an estimated 232,030 cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. alone.  In other words, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their life time.

But there’s some great news – breast cancer is curable.  Breast cancer can be treated, and 1 in 3 cancer deaths worldwide can be prevented through education & screening.  The first thing you (yes, men as well!) can do to fight breast cancer is raise your awareness.  By awareness, we mean prevention & early detection.

Breast Cancer Prevention:

1. 1. 1. Maintain a healthy weight:  Try avoid being overweight or underweight for  optimal health. For more information, you can read: “Is Your Weight Healthy? 4 Ways to Check”
      2. Stay physically active:  Engaging in fitness activities is good for body and soul.  Get inspired & motivated with #Runtastic.
      3. Eat fruits & vegetables:  Focus on a balanced diet!
      4. Do not smoke:  Click here, for tips on how to quit smoking without the feared side effect of weight gain.
      5. Limit alcohol consumption.

Breast Cancer Early Detection:

1. 1. 1. 1. Self-exam:  Women of all ages are encouraged to perform breast self-exams at least once per month.
         2. Clinical breast-exam:  Performed by a healthcare professional who is trained to recognize many different types of abnormalities & warning signs.
         3. Mammogram:  An x-ray that allows a qualified specialist to examine the breast tissue for any suspicious areas.  If results are normal, you go back to regular self-exams.
         4. Biopsy:  In case of an abnormal mammogram, a biopsy is done to identify whether the cells are benign (non- cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
         5. If they are benign, regular screening and mammograms will continue.

In conclusion: BE AWARE & SPREAD AWARENESS!  Breast cancer boasts a 5-year survival rate of 98% with early detection – so make sure you and your loved ones keep on top of your breast health!

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