Volume 44, Issue 4. Today is

Awareness, detection key to fighting breast cancer

Breast cancer can affect anyone at any age.

While breast cancer in young women accounts for a small percentage of all breast cancer cases, the impact of this disease is widespread.

There are more than 250,000 women 40 and under in the United States living with breast cancer, and more than 11,100 young women will be diagnosed in the next year.

Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women ages 15 to 54.

For the month of October, breast cancer awareness month, organizations such as Young Survival Coalition encourages young women to become advocates for their own health and become educated about breast cancer. 

YSC encourages young women to do self-check breast examinations and to go their regular physician appointments.

Early detection is key in the battle against breast cancer.

Be Aware: 12 steps to combat cancer

• Reduce exposure to estrogen
• Quit smoking
• Exercise more
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Restrict red meat and fat intake
• Eat plenty of fruits and veggies
• Relax and reduce stress level
• Research family history
•Perform regular self-exams
•Get annual check-ups
•Limit alcohol intake
•Keep informed

For more information log on to BreastCancer.org