Breast Cancer 101
MOST EVERYONE RECOGNIZES the pink ribbon as a symbol of breast cancer awareness. However, here are some things you may not know about breast cancer:
• There are approximately six different types of breast cancer.
• Breast cancer is treatable when caught and treated in the early stages.
• There are risk factors for breast cancer, including genetics, menopause, and even being overweight.
• Risk reduction measures for breast cancer include not smoking, childbirth/breastfeeding, and limiting alcohol.
• Men can be diagnosed with breast cancer.
• Black women die from breast cancer at a higher rate than white women do.
Because breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, we need to be proactive in reducing our risk! We can do that by:
• Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising.
• Knowing our family history.
• Getting an annual mammogram.
Staying healthy throughout your life will lower your risk of developing any kind of cancer and improve your chances of surviving cancer if it occurs!
Jean Schoen is the founder and president of Cancer Connection of Northwest Ohio, Inc. (419-725-1100).
