October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment. Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women, but with early detection, the survival rates are much higher. The best survival rate comes with prevention.
At Aslan Health, we believe in the power of prevention and proactive healthcare. As part of our commitment to whole-person care, we are here to help our community take important steps toward breast health.
Prevention
To lower your risk of breast cancer, consider these lifestyle changes and preventive strategies:
- Avoid alcohol: Even small amounts can raise your risk of all cancers including breast. If you must, stick to no more than one drink per day.
- Eat a whole food plant-based diet: This means foods that are as close to as how they’re found in nature, i.e. fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, grains. You’ll likely find these on the perimeter of your grocery store or at your local farmer’s market. This is not to say that you will never eat packaged foods, just remember to read your labels! If you can’t pronounce the ingredients, or there’s a bunch of numbers and colors, then put it back on the shelf. Processed food leads to inflammation in the body, a precursor to many of our common diseases, including breast cancer, and can cause DNA damage.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight increases breast cancer risk, especially after menopause. Monitor your portion sizes and calorie intake, and aim for gradual, sustainable weight loss if needed.
- Stay physically active: Regular exercise helps with lowers cancer risk and helps with weight management. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, along with strength training twice a week.
- Breastfeed: If possible, breastfeeding can offer protective benefits against breast cancer, with longer durations providing greater protection.
- Limit post-menopause hormone therapy: Combination hormone therapy (estrogen and progestin) may raise breast cancer risk. Consider non-hormonal alternatives or use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time if hormone therapy is necessary.
- Quit smoking: Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke may increase your risk, so quitting is essential for overall health and cancer prevention.
Why Early Detection Matters
Breast cancer is often detected in the early stages through routine screenings, which can dramatically increase treatment success. For women over 40, regular mammograms are recommended, while those with a family history or other risk factors might need to begin screenings earlier. At Aslan Health, we offer wellness visits where we can discuss your personal risk factors, perform breast exams, and refer you for mammograms when necessary.
What You Can Expect at Aslan Health
We understand that discussing breast health can be a sensitive issue, but it’s essential for maintaining your well-being. When you visit Aslan Health, you can expect compassionate, personalized care. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you feel comfortable and supported throughout your visit. We’ll help you understand your breast health, answer any questions you may have, and provide guidance on next steps if further screenings are needed.
Take Action This October
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder to take charge of your health. Stop in today or make an appointment online to discuss your health. Whether it’s your first exam or you’re looking for a trusted provider to talk through your risk factors, we’re here to walk this journey with you. Health is more then the absence of disease. Health is the state of optimal physical, mental, and social well-being.
Visit us at aslanclinic.com to make an appointment or stop by our clinic for a consultation. We’re here to support you on your health journey, not just in October but all year round.