This year alone, 300,000 Americans were diagnosed with breast cancer, making it one of the most prevalent types of cancer in women. The odds are on our side, despite the fact that this may seem like a frightening statistic. In a confined location, the survival percentage for breast cancer discovered early is 99 percent because of screenings and treatments. Breast Cancer Awareness Month is in October, and like most things in life, information is power. These seven facts about breast cancer can save lives.
You must be your own best advocate when it comes to breast cancer. That entails managing your health. Important first actions in early detection include arranging your yearly mammogram or doing monthly self-breast examinations. Understanding your body can help you recognize the warning signs of breast cancer, which are not always obvious. Check for swelling, discharge, pain, lumps, or changes in the texture of the skin. Understanding your individual risk factors, such as a family history of breast cancer, is just as crucial as taking care of yourself.
Education that supports early detection and high-quality treatment is the main goal of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. These ten breast cancer facts are more crucial than ever if you or someone you know has been impacted by the disease.
1) Dense breast tissue could indicate that you require more examinations.
Doctors may need to perform extra tests, such as ultrasounds, if dense breast tissue makes it more difficult to read a mammography. The FDA recently decided that physicians must tell patients if their breasts are “dense” or “not dense.”
2) Eating plant-based foods could reduce your risk
While maintaining a healthy diet is always important, research has shown that eating a plant-based diet can reduce your risk of breast cancer. This covers fruits, vegetables, and entire grains.
3) Drinking alcohol may increase your risk of developing breast cancer.
The World Health Organization states that drinking alcohol may greatly raise your risk of getting breast cancer. It’s best to be moderate.
4) Breast cancer occurs frequently.
One in eight women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. In addition, skin cancer is the most frequent malignancy in women, followed by breast cancer.
5) The majority of breast cancer cases are curable.
The majority of early-stage breast cancer patients are curable because of tests and therapy. When breast cancer is most treatable, about 66% of cases are discovered. The survival rate is 99 percent when discovered in the initial, localized stages.
6) You can identify changes in your breasts by getting to know them.
A smart method to learn about your breasts is to do monthly at-home breast checks. Finding any changes is made easier the more frequently you check.
7) The results of your BCRAT can reveal a lot.
The Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool, or BCRAT, is a free survey from the National Cancer Institute that asks about your personal and family history to help determine your risk of getting breast cancer. Your ob-gyn can assist you in determining your score.
8) Women over 40 ought to be examined.
Beginning at age 40, women with an average risk of breast cancer should have a mammogram every two years, according to the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force. Nonetheless, the American Cancer Society advises women between the ages of 45 and 54 to get a mammogram every year.
9) Mammograms are nothing to be afraid of.
Although they are unpleasant, mammograms can save your life. Try scheduling two weeks after your period, when your breasts are less sensitive, if that worries you. Reducing caffeine intake may also alleviate breast soreness. Additionally, think about taking an OTC pain reliever an hour prior to your test.
10) A lower risk of breast cancer is associated with regular physical activity.
Regular, moderate exercise can lower your risk of developing breast cancer. However, if you are diagnosed, it can also aid in your recovery. This is because physical activity can aid in the body’s reduction of inflammation.