Breast Cancer: Be Aware and Lower Your Risks

Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Breast Cancer Statistics – According to most recent statistics (2013) from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC):

Breast cancer occurs in both men and women.
230,815 women and 2,109 men in the United States were diagnosed with breast cancer.
40,860 women and 464 men in the United States died from breast cancer.

Early Detection Saves Lives – Research shows that early detection and treatment saves lives. Ask your doctor about prevention and routine screening for breast and other cancers.

“When breast cancer is detected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 100%. Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.” (National Breast Cancer Foundation.)

Lowering Your Risks of Breast Cancer. There are preventative measure for breast (and other) cancers. Tips from the Mayo Clinic for prevention –

Limit alcohol. Less than 1 drink per day is recommended.
Avoid smoking.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Engage in Physical activity. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week. Check with your doctor before exercising for guidelines and recommendations.
Breast-feeding might play a role in prevention.
Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy. Ask your doctor about recommendations and other non-pharmaceutical options.
Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution. Medical-imaging methods, such as computerized tomography, use high doses of radiation. Limit exposure.

Ask Your Doctor. Talk to your doctor about recommendations for prevention and screening to see is best for you. Check with your insurance company to see what type of screening they cover. If you think you might be pregnant, let your doctor know before having a mammogram.

Information for Those Undergoing Treatment for Breast Cancer –

Integrative Medicine (IM) Therapies – Studies show that some IM therapies may help with symptom management, including anxiety, pain, fatigue, sleep and mood.
In one study, Cognitive Behavioral Stress Management was shown to demonstrate increased survival in one study.
Hypnosis may reduce hot flashes in breast cancer survivors.

Ask your Oncologist about Integrative Therapies for adjunctive (supportive) treatment. Talk to your healthcare providers about any integrative, complementary or alternative therapies you are using. Let your healthcare providers know about any over-the-counter, herbal or vitamin supplements you are taking. Note: some may be contraindicated for your care. Discuss with your doctor/oncologist before pursuing.

Wishing you the Best in Health, Karen

Karen Pischke B.S.N., R.N., C.C.R.N. Alumnus. Certified Hypnotherapist, Tobacco Treatment Specialist, Usui Reiki Teacher/Komyo Shihan. Owner/Founder of Dreamtime Wellness LLC. Promoting Optimal Wellness for Body, Mind and Spirit www.DreamtimeWellness.com. Find us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dreamtime-Wellness-/348619611849199

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

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