It’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Here are the top 3 things you need to know about Breast Cancer.
1. What Exactly Is Breast Cancer?
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc., Breast Cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast. Cancer occurs when the DNA of a cell is damaged. It is unknown whether this has to do with the environment, if the disease is hereditary, or both. It is the second leading cause of death in women and the most common form of cancer diagnosed. 1 in 8 women in America will receive this diagnosis at sometime during their life. However, death from Breast Cancer has been on the decline for the past 30 years. Education, early detection and more treatment options are all contributing factors to prolonged life or saving one.
2. Touch and be touched, That is the answer.
Women over 40 or those with a history of Breast Cancer in their families should have yearly mammograms. Mammograms are not 100% foolproof, but they aid in detection and should be performed. The mere fact that you are a woman and you grow older puts you at risk. Early detection is not a cure, but it is key. But, don’t wait until you are over 40 ….. you should be familiar with how your breasts look and feel and pay close attention to any changes in them. Each month at the end of your period, perform a breast self exam. If you no longer have a cycle, choose a day each month to perform the exam. Below is a chart of how you should go about examining your breasts.
3. Breast Cancer Does Not Mean The End
With better education and advances in treatment options and medications, more & more women and men are surviving breast cancer. Yes, men are diagnosed as well. It should not be thought of as a death sentence. The word “cancer” is very scary but it can be fought successfully. If this is a diagnosis you receive ask questions, lots of them. Scientists dedicating their time to Breast Cancer research have made profound advances in the past 25 years. This has lent to the decline in deaths in the U.S. and the over 3 million survivors. Do your part in helping yourself by being aware of the signs and educational information. You can survive with Breast Cancer.
For additional information and resources visit:
www.nationalbreastcancer.org and Breast Cancer Research Foundation
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