Breast Cancer Awareness Month-October 2011 Pt#1

Ms. Parri honors Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2011.  Call 213-816-0358 to join the conversation!

Is breast cancer the most common cause of death for women? No - it is #5. Heart disease is the number one cause of death among women age 40 and above, followed by stroke, lung cancer, and lung diseases. In 2007 (the latest year for which statistics are available), 202k+ women were diagnosed with breast cancer, and 40k+ women died from the disease.

Symptoms may include—

• New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
• Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
• Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
• Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
• Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
• Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
• Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
• Pain in any area of the breast.

What is a mammogram? A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. Doctors use a maHaving regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. If you are age 50 to 74 years, be sure to have a screening mammogram every two years. 

Why should I have a mammogram? Regular mammograms are the best tests doctors have to find breast cancer early.

Where can I go to get screened? Most likely, you can get screened for breast cancer at a clinic, hospital, or doctor's office. 

How can I lower my risk of breast cancer?

• Control your weight and exercise.
• Know your family history of breast cancer.
• Find out about hormone replacement therapy.
• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.

 http://www.cdc.gov/features/breastcancerawareness/