October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Each year, thousands of people experience the effects of breast cancer either through their diagnosis or those around them. Breast cancer is an incredibly significant issue that affects as many as one in eight women. Each year, there are an estimated additional 270,000 cases of breast cancer, so it is important to bring awareness to this issue not only in October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but also year-round. Join HiDow this October in helping us raise awareness around this issue that affects many of us across the United States and around the globe.

What You Need To Know About Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer is a widespread disease that has affected millions of women. As mentioned, as many as one in every eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. And that number is slowly climbing. In addition to the millions of breast cancer cases diagnosed, there are over two hundred and fifty thousand more cases yearly.

In 2020, there will be an estimated additional two-hundred and seventy thousand new cases. Fast Facts About Breast Cancer: • 2,800,000 American women have survived breast cancer • Breast cancer affects women of all races • 75% of those with breast cancer have no family history of the disease • 1 in 8 women will experience it in their lifetime 246, 660 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed each year

Ways to Reduce Your Risk

While breast cancer is a widespread disease that impacts many people each year. Without very much warning in the form of family medical history, there are actionable plans that you can make to increase the likelihood of detecting breast cancer early. Detecting breast cancer early increases the odds of overcoming breast cancer significantly. There is a 98 percent survival rate if and when detected in the early stages. The best ways to reduce your risk for breast cancer are to: • Eat a healthy diet • Maintain a regular exercise routine • Perform a self-breast exam regularly (monthly) • Avoid smoking • Limit alcohol consumption • Breastfeed (Yes! Studies have found that breastfeeding reduces your risk of cancer as well as your child’s).

Be Sure To Get Screened For Breast Cancer

In addition to taking preventative measures that reduce the risk of breast cancer. It’s incredibly important to be sure that you visit your doctor for annual screenings. Living a healthy lifestyle is important. Breast cancer diagnoses detected early on have a much higher rate of survival (98% compared to 27%). An annual breast cancer screening starting at age 40 can help you detect breast cancer early when there is a much better chance to act. If given the option. Opting for a 3-D screening instead of a 2-D screening can also increase the likelihood of early detection. Contact your doctor and ask what more you can do to reduce your risk for breast cancer this October for more health and fitness tips and advice. Visit the HiDow blog, where you will find articles covering health, fitness, and TENS/EMS therapy.