I love my breasts! They are definitely a part of my physique that makes me feel feminine and sexy. They also fed my sons for the first year of their lives. So I’d miss my breasts if they were gone and, for that reason, I’m doing everything I can to look after them.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month so I decided it was timely to post this article. Several years ago, one of my mammograms detected some unusual breast tissue in my right breast. An ultrasound and biopsy ruled out cancer but I’ve been vigilant ever since about annual mammograms, ultrasounds and even MRI’s. This may sound like over-kill but, as far as I’m concerned, it’s worth the trouble. Fortunately, in Canada, our health care system covers those costs.
All you have to do is check out the latest statistics on breast cancer to know that all women should be protective of their breasts. Monthly breast self examinations are critical and the medical community recommends mammograms every two years for women over 50 years. For women who are considered high risk, for example, they have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer; more regular breast examinations are recommended.
Not convinced yet that you should pay more attention to your breasts? Maybe the following facts will convince you:
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian women (excluding non-melanoma skin cancer). In 2010:
- An estimated 23,200 women will be diagnosed and 5,300 will die from breast cancer.
- An estimated 180 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer and 50 will die of it.
- On average, 445 Canadian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer every week.
- On average, 100 Canadian women will die of breast cancer every week.
- (Source: Canadian Cancer Society)
I believe that by speaking out about breast cancer and becoming pro-active, we can all help each other! Let’s spread the word about this devastating disease and encourage our family members and friends to take better care of their bodies. Please feel free to share this blog post on your social media sites.
Do you know anyone suffering from breast cancer at the moment or have you lost someone in your life from this illness?
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Hey sexy boob lady,
Such an important topic, and one that’s easy to put out of mind so thanks for the reminder. (Also, next time, you might do well with some visual aids:)
BuenoBaby recently posted..It’s the anniversary of my mom’s death so I’m going easy on the naked photos today
One trick that I learned: Do your self-examine (which CAN help, along with the medical exams…) on the same day every month – the day of your birthday. For example, my birthday is April 23 so I do my exam on the 23rd of every month. Easy Peasy!
The Mommy recently posted..NICU donation
Great tip! Thanks.
Breast cancer is definitely a very serious ailment in today’s world. Routine check-ups are important for catching the condition as early as possible and when it is most treatable. You are doing the right thing!
Steven H recently posted..PsychNews- Sep 26 – Oct 2
Thanks Steven! And it’s a delight to have a men’s perspective. Hope you’ll keep checking out my blog site.
I am a 14 year breast cancer survivor…I was 32 at diagnosis. It is very important to know your breasts and take care of them. And if you are unfortunate enough to lose them? They are doing WONDERFUL things these days with breast reconstruction!
Lanita recently posted..The Family Car Trip
Congratulations on being a survivor! Thank you so much for visiting my blog site and posting a comment.
445 women every week diagnosed with breast cancer!! Those are high rates! Wow!! Yes, lets take care of our breasts!!
Heather recently posted..Tribute to the Ta Tas!
My grandma and my aunt were both diagnosed with breast cancer within 5 years of each other. They both bravely fought the battle and survived. MY grandma, however, after 8 years of ebing in remission, relapsed again. This time the cancer manifested itself as tumors in her esophagus, stomach, and other organs. No matter the treatment, she did not make it. She passed away just 18 days before I returned from England where I was studying. She was my confidant, my closest relative, the one I could tell anything and everything to, my inspiration. Thank you for blogging about such an important topic for all women, and men who have a mom, sister, wife, cousin…
Dear Amanda,
Cancer is an insidious illness affecting all of our lives (indirectly & directly). I am so sorry to hear about your grandma. Every loss from cancer is one loss too many!
Best regards,
Karyn