October- National Breast Cancer Research Month

In leu of my Pink Ribbon Breakfast tomorrow, and October being the national month for breast cancer research, I thought I would share some interesting facts for all the women out there. 

I have never known a woman with breast cancer (that i know of), but I am really passionate about getting involved in areas that affect women in general. Some of those being abortion, domestic violence and sex trafficking. I feel like because breast cancer is something that could happen to any woman, including myself, I feel the need to get on board and get the word out that there are ways to lessen your chance of getting breast cancer. I know that genetics play a BIG and main role but, there are practical things you can do to help guard yourself. 

Here are just a few: 

-Be physically active.

*Exercise reduces estrogen levels, fights obesity, lowers insulin levels and boosts the function of immune system cells that attack tumors.

-Maintain a normal weight.

*This is really important. Women who lose more than 10 lbs in early adulthood, weaken their chances of breast cancer by 65%. 

-Reduce the amount of "bad" fats (saturated and trans fats) in your diet, and eat foods that contain more "good" fats (polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, like olive and canola oil). Certain types of fat may contribute to increased risk of breast cancer and some can lower the risk. 

-Take multivitamins with folic acid.

-Limit alcohol to less than a drink a day.

*women who drink more than two drinks a day at 37% more likely to develop breast cancer. 

*menopausal women who drink a half glass of wine daily increase their chances of breast cancer by 18%.

-Breastfeed instead of formula feed your infant if possible. 

There are over 2 million breast cancer survivors today. Because 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer by the age of 85, early detection is what will significantly increase your chances of surviving breast cancer. Doing a monthly self breast exam, yearly mammograms, and clinical breast exams is the best way to detect the disease at it's earliest stage, which give you your best chance of beating it. 

*To create your own Early Detection Plan go to www.NBCF.org. 

If you are interested in supporting breast cancer research here are a few websites you can visit for more information or a link to donate money to end breast cancer: 

*www.NBCF.org

*www.nbcf.org.au (if you're in Australia)

*www.komen.org

*www.cookforthecure.com

How you can do your part in raising awareness during the month of October...

*Buy PINK!

*Donate to NBCF

* Host a Pink Ribbon Breakfast (if you're in Australia)

*Wear your pink ribbon and proudly support breast cancer research. 

Don't forget to do a self breast exam this month, or if you're due for one- go get a mammogram! 

Many blessings!