October is Breast Cancer Month

Today is the beginning of Breast Cancer Month. There is breast cancer in my family.  My sister had it when she was 50.  My mother and my aunt got it in their 70’s.  I know I am at risk.  I therefore get examined twice each year.  I have had extensive genetic testing and I’m not a carrier for the BRCA gene. 

However, there is no guarantee. 

Last month I participated in a charity event for Sharsheret, an organization that provides crucial support to individuals and families facing breast and ovarian cancer diagnoses. My team raised over $12,500 toward the total of over $400,000 to support those women and families facing breast and ovarian cancer.

Organizers of Breast Cancer Awareness Month are emphasizing the need for more than mere awareness of the disease.

“We know that to help those facing breast cancer, awareness alone isn’t enough,” reads the website of the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. “This October, get involved. Get screened. Make a donation. Take action. Make this (month) about more than awareness.”

Every day, more than 700 women in the U.S. alone are diagnosed, and the struggle extends every day.

The National Breast Cancer Foundation says that people can take action to lower some, but not all, risk factors. Those include:

• Lack of Physical Activity:  A sedentary lifestyle with little physical activity can increase your risk for breast cancer.

• Poor Diet: A diet high in saturated fat and lacking fruits and vegetables can, too.

• Being Overweight or Obese: So can being overweight or obese. Your risk is increased if you have already gone through menopause.  

• Drinking Alcohol. Frequent consumption can increase risk; the more you drink, the greater the risk.

Talk to your doctor about your health questions and do what you can to raise awareness, offer support, and take action.