National Cancer Prevention Month

February is National Cancer Prevention month. When I think about Cancer I can not help but to think about those that I lost to the terrible disease. The big C as many may call it I know us in the health field do. I took care of a lady once that was diagnosed with breast cancer, and while many will say that they lived a good life now let them go. This ladies family fought back, she had her breast cut off and treatment began. So lets start today looking at what a few of the causes of breast cancer and what we can do to prevent it.

First of all, life style changes may be in store for us who are looking to reduce risk of breast cancer. Limiting alcohol: the more you drink, the greater your risk of developing breast cancer limits to 1 drink a day is the recommended any more makes the risk go up

Don't smoke: If you don't smoke dont start and if you do smoke stop. Studies have shown a link between smoking and breast cancer. Not smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health

Weight: I know we hear it every where these days but the truth is being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast cancer. If obesity happens later in life especially after menopause the risk increases

Physical Activity: Being physical can help you maintain a healthy weight. An average of 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week is recommended

Breast feeding is both good for the baby and for the moms body as well. A link between breast feeding preventing breast cancer has been shown. The longer you breast feed the greater the protection.

Hormone therapy for more than three to five years increases the risk of breast cancer. Hormone therapy is often used to treat menopausal symptoms but there are other options including nonhormonal therapies and medications. If you do choose hormone therapy use the lowest dose that works for your and continue to have the dr monitor the length of time.