October is in full swing, which means not only is Halloween around the corner, but this specific month highlights the awareness on an important issue plaguing the nation– breast cancer awareness.
Statistics shows that 1 in 8 American women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer at some point in their lives, and about 2,500 men will also be diagnosed with the disease in 2018.
Every year, it’s shown that breast cancer tends to get more and more aggressive, yet still no cure has been found.
It’s important that we all take the time to monitor our health, especially when a disease such as breast cancer not only impacts women, but men as well.
As a generation, we need to be having more dialogue about the issue not only in October, but 365 days a year. Almost everyone knows at least one person or more that has been diagnosed with breast cancer. For me, the disease has been prevalent in women on both sides of my family and has surely impacted us both emotionally and physically.
So what can we do?
Start by talking to your doctor.
It is recommended that women (and men) begin receiving mammograms every year at age 40, but the possibility of developing breast cancer before then is highly likely. If you know you have a family history of the disease, talk to your doctor about early detection options. The sooner you know, the more security and defense you have to combat the disease.
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Self-breast checks are vital
Find some time during the month to examine your breast to make sure there are no abnormalities. It’s recommended that you look for lumps, inflammation of breast tissue, unfamiliar discharge from your nipples or any discoloration. These are usually the first signs breast cancer patients discover and ignore.
via Clovia
Live a healthy lifestyle
Even though any man or woman can develop breast cancer, it’s important that you try to live the healthiest lifestyle you can offer yourself. Try to avoid over-consumption of alcohol and processed foods with hormones. Exercise or get in whatever physical activity of your choice each day for at least 30 minutes a day. But specifically for the ladies, watch the birth control methods you choose. Research has found that there is a very small link between the risk of developing breast and hormonal birth control methods (aka the pill). After age 30, it is recommended that you discontinue use of hormonal-based birth control methods as a precaution of potentially increasing your risk of the disease.
via Pixabay
Breast cancer awareness is not just about pink products or women, it’s all about finding a cure. All of us are impacted no matter what race, ethnicity, or gender, and that’s why it’s important that we all come together as one to combat the disease.