For National Mammography Day, Let’s Reduce Your Cancer Risk

National Mammography Day is observed every year on the third Friday in October as part of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

President Bill Clinton proclaimed the first National Mammography Day in 1993 (I know, I know).  October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and you probably already know how important it is to check for lumps once a month, and have yearly mammograms after you turn 40.

If you catch it early, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 98%.  That's compared to 27% if it's already spreading.  But here are three important things you can also do to REDUCE your breast cancer risk.

#1.)  Limit Your Alcohol Intake.  Researchers now think that even small amounts of alcohol can increase your chances of developing breast cancer.  Two to three drinks a week is the limit.

#2.)  Exercise at Least Three Times a Week.  Walking is okay, but more vigorous exercise is even better.  The goal should be to keep your heart rate up for at least 20 straight minutes.

 #3.)  Lose Weight and Don't Gain It Back.  Being overweight increases your breast cancer risk, especially if you're post-menopausal, and gained the weight as an adult.   A 2008 study at the University of Texas showed that overweight women also have lower survival rates, partly because the cancer tends to be more aggressive.

Spread the word and get your mammograms, ladies!

Healthily yours,
Behka