Check Your Breasts!!

Today is National Pink Day!! And it just so happens I had my mammogram today!!

We talk about health and fitness every day. What we don't talk about every day is breast health.

Recommendations vary on when to begin getting mammograms. Some say 40 and some say 45. It may be recommended even earlier if there is a family history. See your doctor right away if you have any symptoms. 

Watch for any changes in the breast. Unusual changes could be:

- any breast swelling

- skin redness, irritation, or dimpling

- breast pain

- nipple pain, inverted nipples

- nipple discharge

- a lump in the armpit

Early detection is vital. It is estimated 1 in 8 women and 1 in 1000 men will develop invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. 

There are risk factors you can't control such as age, gender, or family history. But here are some you can control to reduce your risks: 

- weight 

- diet

- exercise

- alcohol consumption 

- smoking

- exposure to estrogen

- oral contraceptives 

Remember it's never too early to do self checks! If you are unsure how to give yourself an exam check out www.breastcancer.org for a step by step guide.