According to Cancer.org, 276,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer are diagnosed in women every single year. 

The good news…

Due to research and new medical practices, there are currently over 3.5 million breast cancer survivors in the United States and the survival rates continue to grow! 

A lot of this progress is due to bringing awareness to such diseases, which is why every October we band together to celebrate cancer survivors, recognize those who are battling breast cancer, and fundraise for organizations who are working hard to find a cure! 

In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I wanted to provide some information on how you can help keep your body safe, healthy, and cancer-free!

Let’s dive right in…

Breast Cancer Safety Tip# 1: Be Proactive About Your Health

A healthy body is a happy body! 

Of course, a sad reality is that even the healthiest person on the planet can be diagnosed with breast cancer. However, taking control of your health today can help prevent you from developing cancer down the road or at least give you the best fighting chance for overcoming your diagnoses. 

Here’s what I recommend…

  1. Quit smoking! Smoking is directly linked to lung cancer that can quickly spread through your body. Kick the habit now to keep your lungs and the rest of your body healthy. 
  2. Opt for a healthy diet full of protein-packed meats and fish, vitamin and nutrient-packed veggies, and antioxidant-rich fruits. Skip the processed foods and snacks/meals that are full of sugars. 
  3. Start an exercise routine. Cancer is known for attacking vital organs. While exercise can’t cure cancer, having healthy organs (like well functioning lungs and a strong heart) can help give you your best outcome. 

Worried about not getting enough vitamins and nutrients into your diet? Exciting news…

I’ve recently opened a supplement store online where you can find a variety of projects that will help give you the nutrition you need!

View my supplement store here!

Breast Cancer Safety Tip# 2: Attend Your Yearly Physical and OB/GYN Appointments 

Nobody loves going to the doctors. But getting a yearly exam and a mammogram (for those around the age of 40 or older) is a great way to ensure your body is in tip-top shape. 

During your yearly physical and OB/GYN appointments, doctors conduct basic health checks alongside breast exams and cervical tests to check for any signs of cancer. Attending these appointments is the best way to catch cancer early, giving you your best shot of recovery! 

Breast Cancer Safety Tip# 3: Don’t Be Shy…Ask Your Doctor Questions! 

Your doctor cares about your health and wellbeing, and they want you to bring any questions or concerns you might have about your body to them. 

If you’re worried about changes in your breasts (or any other body parts) let them know! It’s better to have someone take a quick look for reassurance than to find out later down the road that you have cancer. 

Please don’t be shy. Your doctor has seen and heard just about everything! They are here to help you address any medical concerns you might have! 

Breast Cancer Safety Tip# 4: Know the Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

The body is an amazing, incredible thing. In fact, it even comes equipped with various “warning signs” that something might not be quite right. 

In terms of breast cancer, CDC.gov recommends that you pay attention to the following warning signs of breast cancer below…

  • New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
  • Thickening or swelling of a part of the breast.
  • Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
  • Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
  • Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
  • Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
  • Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
  • Pain in any area of the breast.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t panic! There are many reasons you might experience one or more of these issues. But, PLEASE, go get yourself checked out ASAP to ensure it’s nothing serious! 

Breast Cancer Safety Tip# 5: Perform Regular Self Breast Exams at Home 

You can perform your own breast exams from the comfort of your home—a habit you should definitely add to your weekly or monthly self-care routine.

Nationalbreastcancer.org beautifully lays out instructions for two methods of checking your breasts at home. Here’s what they advise…

Performing a Breast Exam in the Shower

  • With the pads/flats of your 3 middle fingers, run your fingers over your entire breast and armpit area, pressing down with light, medium, and firm pressure.
  • Check both breasts each month feeling for any lump, thickening, hardened knot, or any other breast changes.
  • If you notice anything abnormal, get in touch with your doctor. 

Performing a Breast Exam In Front of a Mirror 

  • Visually inspect your breasts with your arms at your sides. 
  • Next, raise your arms high overhead.
  • Look for any changes in the contour, any swelling, or dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. 
  • Finally, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly match—few women’s breasts do, so look for any dimpling, puckering, or changes, particularly on one side.

A Quick Word on Male Breast Cancer…

Breast cancer is predominantly a female issue. However, it is possible for men to develop breast cancer. 

This month I encourage you to talk with your partner, son(s), and/or male friends and encourage them to be proactive about their health. 

A quick conversation can save a life, so don’t wait! 

If you haven’t spoken to a medical professional about your health recently, or have questions or concerns, I encourage you to schedule a virtual visit with me today! 

Click here to schedule your appointment! 

And don’t forget! My new supplement shop is officially open!

If you’re in need of any products from multivitamins to weight management support or anything in between, please go check it out!

Shop for supplements here!