Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Did you know that October marks the 25th year of Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM)? The purposes of this annual campaign is to increase awareness, raise funds for research, and promote prevention and early detection.
Please note that Friday, October 16th is National Mammography Day. Take this as an opportunity to schedule a mammorgram or encourage a loved one to schedule a mammogram today. You could be saving a life.
The BCAM website is filled with lots of information and tools for patients, information about the disease, and a listing of opportunities to help the cause. While breast cancer is not totally preventable, it’s important to remember that there are a few important things you can do to be as healthy as possible.
1.) Begin scheduling regular mammograms and screenings at the age of 40.
2.) Obtain a clinical breast exam annually.
3.) Perform monthly breast self-exams. This goes for women in their 20’s and beyond.
4.) Choose a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and foods naturally high in fiber (think whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and legumes).
5.) Limit your alcohol intake to <1 drinks per day.
6.) Stop smoking if you are currently in the habit.
7.) Stay active! A brisk 30 minute walk on most days of the week does the trick. But it can be a lot more fun to find something you enjoy: exercising with a friend, taking a dance class, walking your dog, etc.
Check out a blog post I wrote earlier about Holly Clegg and her fanastic cookbook “Eating Well Through Cancer.” Here’s a recipe for Yam Biscuits she recommends for the day of chemotherapy. This can be a great resource for anyone who is currently undergoing treatment for breast cancer.
Everyone who is reading my blog is aware of how important it is to take care of your bodies as best you can. All you can do is your very best, so try not to get overwhelmed and stressed. It may be helpful to choose one thing you can do a bit better and focus on it…even if that means reaching out to your Mom, sister, or best friend.