Chances are you either know someone who has been affected by breast cancer or you have been diagnosed yourself. That’s because one in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetimes, making it one of the most common cancers in the nation.
Fortunately, early detection and new treatment methods have increased breast cancer survival significantly. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recommends that women at average risk for breast cancer should get a mammogram every two years between the ages of 40 and 74.
Your doctor may recommend other screening methods or for you to be screened earlier or more frequently, depending on your family health history. Keep in mind that young women and even men can be diagnosed with breast cancer, so talk to your doctor right away if you notice any lumps, pain or unusual changes in that area.
While many factors play into your cancer risk, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce your likelihood of developing the disease. Some of these healthy habits include:
• Being physically active. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.
• Maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight can increase your risk of developing breast cancer, especially after menopause.
• Eating a healthy diet. Focus on fruits and vegetables, lean meats, dairy and whole grains.
• Limiting your alcohol intake. The less alcohol you drink, the more you can reduce your breast cancer risk.
The Care for Yourself program can help with free or low-cost breast and cervical cancer screenings for certain income-eligible women between 21 and 64 years old. For more information, visit the Iowa Health and Human Services website.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
