Breast Cancer Treatment is More Effective than Ever Recognizing that we still have a long way to go, we would like to acknowledge this October how incredibly far we have come in the world of breast cancer treatments. It's hard to believe that in the 1970's radical mastectomy was still the only accepted surgical way to treat breast cancer, but today, there are numerous effective methods, from surgery and radiation to drug treatments and prevention options. As a result of these effective methods, deaths from breast cancer dropped by approximately 2 percent each year from 1990 to 2006. Today, screening and prevention are modified for an individual patient's needs, depending on risk factors, including family history and genetic makeup. And unlike a century ago, treatment is also customized, taking into account factors such as the stage of the cancer, its sensitivity to hormones, and the personal preferences of the patient-creating a personalized treatment plan for each individual who is diagnosed. This October, help us honor 25 years of Breast Cancer Awareness Month by celebrating all of those who have been affected by this all too common cancer. Become empowered by learning the different options for screening and treatment as well as how you can help prevent breast cancer from developing. Watch our breast cancer video series now. |
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8 Ways to Lower Your Risk of Breast Cancer
Maintain a healthy weight by choosing nutritious foods.
Choose whole grains instead of refined grain products.
Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
Limit processed and red meat in your diet.
Engage in moderate to vigorous exercise regularly.
Limit alcohol consumption to one drink per day. Women who are at
a high risk for breast cancer should consider not drinking alcohol at all.
If you are at high risk, either because of family history or genetics, talk to your doctor about preventative drug therapies or surgeries that could drastically lower your risk.
Get screened. Early diagnosis of early stage disease means a chance for a cure. Have a clinical breast exam every three years if you are in your 20s or 30s, and every year if you are 40 or older. Ask your doctor how often you should have mammograms or other diagnostic tests.
from The National Institutes of Health
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