Friday, October 9, 2020

A DAILY REMINDER TO CHECK THOSE BREASTS | BLOGTOBER DAY 9

Soweto, South Africa

*A DAILY REMINDER TO CHECK THOSE BREASTS

I saw a post on Instagram showing stats on how woman of color are 
far more likely to get breast-cancer than our other counterparts, got me thinking about a lot of things. 
Sad things really like how two people close to me
suffered from this brutality disease and there was not a way of helping because it had already spread 
so much and there was not a lot that could have been done 
(academic hospital, no medical aid just being poor). 

Every October we take to the streets and walk with Avon and this year that
will not be happening, however there will be a virtual walk (meaning walk at home for 5 km or 8 km 
and upload pictures online to show your support. 

Because most of us woman in disadvantage areas don't have access to proper healthcare and all, 
the prevention is better that cure method works best for us: 
Here is what (https://www.mayoclinic.org/)is saying the preventative measure's of breast cancer are: 

Research shows that lifestyle changes can decrease the risk of breast cancer,
 even in women at high risk. To lower your risk:


Limit alcohol.
 The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of developing breast cancer. 
The general recommendation — based on research on the effect of alcohol on
 breast cancer risk — is to 
limit yourself to less than one drink a day, as even small amounts increase risk.

Don't smoke.
 Evidence suggests a link between smoking and breast cancer risk,
 particularly in premenopausal women.

Control your weight.
Being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast cancer. 
This is especially true if obesity occurs later in life, particularly after menopause.

Be physically active.
Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight,
 which helps prevent breast cancer. 
Most healthy adults should aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic 
activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly,
 plus strength training at least twice a week.

Breast-feed.
Breast-feeding might play a role in breast cancer prevention. 
The longer you breast-feed, the greater the protective effect.

Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy. 
Combination hormone therapy for more than three to five years 
increases the risk of breast cancer. If you're taking hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms, 
ask your doctor about other options. 
You might be able to manage your symptoms with non hormonal therapies and medications. 
If you decide that the benefits of short-term hormone therapy outweigh the risks, 
use the lowest dose that works for you and continue to have your doctor monitor
 the length of time you're taking hormones.

Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution. 
Medical-imaging methods, such as computerized tomography, use high doses of radiation. 
While more studies are needed, some research suggests a link between breast cancer and 
cumulative exposure to radiation over your lifetime.
 Reduce your exposure by having such tests only when absolutely necessary.

What else can I do?

Be vigilant about breast cancer detection. 
If you notice any changes in your breasts, such as a new lump or skin changes, 
consult your doctor. Also, ask your doctor when to begin mammograms and 
other screenings based on your personal history.

Most local clinics in the townships have really helpful staff just 
don't go there with an attitude (you know what I mean), 
should you suspect anything they will guide you
through to relevant assistance centers. 

Stay strong woman 
You  Got This

See you soon.

Zanele

*(image)

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