Breast Cancer Awareness Month-October 2011 Pt#2

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 #1 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/