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Tips
for Good Breast Health
Breast cancer
is the second most common form of cancer in women in the U.S. today,
and every woman is at risk. Although there is no proven way to prevent
the disease, there are ways that each woman can protect her health.
Here are steps you can take to maintain good breast health.
Follow an early-detection program:
- Get regular
mammograms, beginning at age 40; one every year or as directed by
your doctor.
- Have a breast
examination by a doctor or nurse, every year, starting at age 20.
- Learn the normal
feel of your breasts, and perform monthly self-exams. Many women
have lumpy breasts, which are usually not cause for concern. However,
if you feel a change or a lump that is new, be sure to have it checked
by a doctor or nurse right away.
- There are other
steps you can take for good breast health. Researchers are continuing
to explore the effect that a healthy, active lifestyle can have
on reducing breast cancer risk.
- While it is
not yet known whether losing weight will reduce your risk of developing
breast cancer, maintaining a lifelong healthy weight is good for
your breast health as well as for your heart and bones.
Results of breast
cancer research also suggest you should:
- Maintain a
diet low in fat; one that includes fruits, vegetables and whole
grains. These low-calorie, high-fiber foods have proven health benefits.
- Avoid alcohol.
Regular use of even small amounts of alcohol - whether it is liquor,
beer or wine - has been shown to increase breast cancer risk.
- Don't smoke.
Smoking causes cancer, heart disease and many chronic illnesses;
it also negatively affects the health of others.
- Exercise regularly.
Work out, do aerobics, bike or walk briskly - exercise in some way
so as to raise your heart rate - three or more times a week. Several
studies have shown that regular vigorous exercise can reduce breast
cancer risk.
© National
Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations (NABCO), New York, NY
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