Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Know Your Risks and Get Screened

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Know Your Risks and Get Screened

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it's a time to raise awareness of this important health issue. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, and it's also the second leading cause of cancer death among women.

The good news is that early detection and treatment can save lives. That's why it's so important for women to get regular mammograms and clinical breast exams. A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that can detect cancer early, when it's most treatable. A clinical breast exam is a physical exam of the breast that can help your doctor feel for any lumps or changes.

The American Cancer Society recommends that women start getting mammograms at age 45. Women at high risk for breast cancer may need to start getting mammograms earlier.

In addition to getting regular mammograms and clinical breast exams, there are other things you can do to reduce your risk of breast cancer. These include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Not smoking
• Limiting alcohol intake

If you are a woman, I encourage you to talk to your doctor about your risk of breast cancer and how you can reduce it. Early detection and treatment are key to survival.

Here are some other ways you can help raise awareness of breast cancer during this month:

• Wear pink
• Donate to a breast cancer research or support organization
• Participate in a breast cancer walk or run
• Talk to your friends and family about breast cancer

Together, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.