THOMAS: Breast cancer doesn't only happen in October
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer, second only to skin cancer. According to the NIH National Cancer Institute, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime.
The month of October is filled with pink ribbons, T-shirts, as well as walks, runs and parties to raise money for research and education programs for breast cancer. Even the NFL players and coaches are decked out in pink equipment accessories during games in October.
Breast cancer prevention strategies are not just for October, but should be incorporated into the daily lives of women. A combination of screenings and simple lifestyle changes can decrease the risk of breast cancer. Screening involves having mammograms, clinical breast exams and self-breast exams.
Regardless of how much we dread it, hate it, despise it, whether it is painful or not -- big or small, young or old -- an annual mammogram is the champion of early detection.
A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast that usually involves two views of each breast. Mammograms help find lumps or growths that are too small for you or your health care provider to feel when conducting an exam.
Though there are no guarantees against developing cancer, overwhelming scientific evidence shows that the majority of cancers are also preventable through simple lifestyle changes such as food choices, weight management and physical activity.
Choose a diet rich in plant-based foods. Eating a large variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds and nuts offers the body rich sources of vitamins, minerals and fiber that may help fight cancer.
Aim to be a healthy weight. Scientific evidence indicates that obesity may increase the risk for breast cancer. Get moving every day by engaging in activities that you enjoy. Aim for 30 minutes of daily moderate exercise to start, and then increase to 60 minutes per day.
Eat minimally processed foods. Limit salt consumption to a daily intake of less than 2,400 milligrams to reduce cancer risk. Use herbs, spices, lemon juice and vinegar in place of salt to flavor the foods you eat.
Lastly, limit alcoholic drinks. The American Institute for Cancer research recommends no more than one drink a day for women. If you don't drink, don't start.
We have all been touched by someone affected with breast cancer through first-hand experience, friends and/or neighbors.
Today, women are beating the odds when it comes to cancer through a variety of ways: regular annual mammograms leading to early detection; improving lifestyles, which prevents breast cancer and other illnesses; advancements in cancer care, medications and treatments.
Finally, I would like to dedicate this article to the strong women in my life who have stood up to breast cancer and the strong women of the world who are still fighting.
Contact county Extension agent Keishon J. Thomas by calling 478-751-6338 or emailling thomaskj@uga.ed
This story was originally published October 18, 2015 at 10:39 PM with the headline "THOMAS: Breast cancer doesn't only happen in October ."