Take Care Tuesday

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign to increase the awareness of the disease. While most people are aware of breast cancer, many forget to take the steps to have a plan to detect the disease in its early stages and encourage others to do the same.

Early detection is key!!

The best way to find breast cancer early is with mammogram. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that if you are a woman 50 years or older, you should have a screening mammogram every 2 years.

What is a mammogram?
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. Doctors use mammogram to look for early signs of breast cancer. Having regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. If you are age 50 to 74 years, be sure to have a screening every two years. If you are age 40-49, talk to your doctor about when and how often you should have a screening mammogram.

Why should I have a mammogram?
Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early, sometimes up to three years before it can be felt. When their breast cancer is found early, many women go on to live long and healthy lives.

How can I lower my risk of breast cancer?

• Control your weight and exercise.
• Know your family history of breast cancer. If you have a mother, sister, or daughter with breast cancer, ask your doctor what your risk of getting breast cancer is and how you can lower your risk.
• Find out the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy.
• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.

Can men get breast cancer?

Although it is not very common, men can also get breast cancer. For every 100 cases of breast cancer, less than 1 is in men.

Source: www.cdc.gov