During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s a good time to remember the many people affected by the disease. Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, but it can be successfully treated when found early. While no one has full control over whether he or she gets breast cancer, there are simple steps you can take to help reduce your risk.
1. Know your risk
Talk to your family to learn about your family health history. Then speak with your health care provider about your personal risk of breast cancer.
2. Get screened
Have a clinical breast exam at least every three years starting at age 20, and every year starting at age 40 if you are at average risk. Ask your health care provider which screening tests are right for you if you are at a higher risk.
3. Know what is normal for you
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; or new pain in one spot that doesn’t go away.
4. Make healthy lifestyle choices
Maintain a healthy weight and add exercise into your routine. Also, limit your alcohol intake.
These recommendations are provided by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, the global leader of the breast cancer movement.
Coolibar also wishes to remind you that as part of a healthy and aware lifestyle, to protect yourself from the sun and check your skin regularly for irregular moles using the ABCDE’s of melanoma from the American Academy of Dermatology. Prevention and early detection are key factors in reducing your risk of developing skin cancers.