Spread the Word.

Here at The Path of Wellness & Healing, we like to follow a certain adage: Friends don’t let friends get breast cancer. Because our goal is to educate, inspire hope, and raise awareness, we urge you to do your part to help spread our message.

It starts with you. Set an example for yourself and your loved ones by doing what you can to lower your own risk by leading a healthy lifestyle. Learn your family history, maintain a healthy weight, get regular exercise, eat plenty of cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, and get mammograms once a year.

You’ve probably heard that when it comes to breast cancer, early detection is key – and it all begins with the self-exam. While a breast self exam (BSE) is by no means a substitute for a medical examination, it’s vital to know how your breasts look and feel on a daily basis, and to make note of anything that seems out of the ordinary. Of course, finding a change in your breast does not necessarily indicate the presence of cancer, but it’s important to share any changes you’ve noticed with your doctor immediately – and to encourage your loved ones to do the same.

For more information and tips on performing a BSE, check out www.breastcancer.org

Don’t forget the men in your life. Breast cancer is not exclusive to women. In fact, over 2,000 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year. That’s relatively low in comparison to females diagnosed with the disease, but men do have breast tissue, so various factors can increase risk – including age, alcohol use, and hormone levels. It’s important to remember that all of us, regardless of gender, should help raise breast cancer awareness. Remind the women and men in your life to see their doctor immediately if they notice anything unusual about their breasts.