More than 180,000 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 alone. It is the number-one cause of cancer death among Latinas and the number-two cause of cancer death for females of all other ethnicities. Women can combat what can be a life-threatening disease through early detection and prevention. Early detection can be accomplished through an awareness of family history and regular exams. Prevention occurs through healthy lifestyle choices.
Be Aware of History
Women are more likely to get breast cancer if a family member has had it before her. The risk is particularly high if a woman's mother or sister has had breast cancer. Personal history can also be a predictor of breast cancer as women who have had benign cancer in the past and women who experienced early menstruation or late menopause are also more likely to have the disease.
Women with increased risk factors should make their doctor aware of their history and be vigilant about receiving checkups and conducting self-exams.
Check for Symptoms
According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, women should conduct breast self-exams once per month. During the self-exam, look for changes in breast tissue. Any changes in size, lumps, dimples or puckering should be examined by a physician immediately to make sure they are not cancerous.
After 50, women should also have mammograms regularly. Historically, experts recommended annual screening tests. However, a new statement by the U.S. Preventative Services Taskforce recommends mammograms every two years.
Enjoy a Healthy Lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle can lower a woman's risk of cancer. A low-fat diet halts the body's production of excess estrogen, which can cause tumor growth. Avoiding daily alcohol consumption has been shown to cut the risk of getting cancer in half. Regular exercise (more than four hours per week) increases the immune system and lowers estrogen levels, thus reducing cancer risk. Choosing to not smoke reduces overall cancer risk and improves general health, which can help a woman fight cancer if she is diagnosed with it.
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