Did you know that all women have a lifetime 1 in 8 risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer according to the American Cancer Society? If you have a mother, sister, grandmother or maternal aunt who has had breast cancer, your chances are even higher. Although there are no guarantees that if you follow all the advice recommended by the medical profession that you will be spared from this disease by taking these extra steps you may protect yourself, or at least receive an early diagnosis which could be life saving.

Here are strong suggestions that could keep you healthy:
1. Exercise at least three to four hours per week-the more vigorous the activity, the better. By keeping moving, you entire moving gets a needed workout. There have been many studies indicating a link between vigorous exercise and reduction in breast cancer.
2. Drink more water and less sodas and alcohol. Our bodies need hydration, and alcohol dehydrates you. Studies have shown that the greater the alcohol intake, the greater the risk factor.
3. Be cautious with hormone replacement therapy. Researchers have found that HRT containing both estrogen and progestin increased breast cancer risk by 24 percent. The majority of doctors now agree that long term HRT is unsafe, although short term use for severe menopausal symptoms may be justified. Talk to your doctor to find out the latest research and what is best for you.
4. Do monthly self breast exams. Examine your breasts in the shower or when you are laying on your bed. Be diligent about knowing your own body.
5. Schedule an annual mammogram if you are 40 or older or when recommended by your physician. If you have the “sister connection” (a close family member with breast cancer), you may want to consider a mammogram at a younger age and/or ask your doctor about genetic testing and counseling. Mammograms help discover tumors early when they are easier to treat. Federal law requires that you receive by mail a report you can understand.
6. Keep your weight managed, especially after menopause when your risks for breast cancer increase. Weight gain is linked to more incidence of breast cancer.
7. Lobby for change. Breast cancer needs and deserves as much attention as AIDS, heart disease, and other cancers. Get vocal. Find a breast cancer action group and join a cause. Women deserve alternatives and cures.

Information, education, and communication are your friends. If you are one of the 220,000 women a year who receive a breast cancer diagnosis, don’t panic. There are numerous treatment choices, top-notch oncologists, and super support services available. The earlier you know, the better your chances of survival. Stay positive.
Two helpful web sites are: www.cancer.org or www.stopbreastcancer.org