10 Things You Need To Know About Breast Cancer

The entire month of October is Breast Cancer Awareness month in the whole world and in raising more awareness here are ten things you need to know about Breast Cancer.

1. I’s important to understand your family health history because a genetic predisposition can increase lifetime breast cancer risk up to 87%.

2. Breast tissue goes beyond your cup. It extends to your armpits, collarbone and breastbone.

3. 75% of breast cancers occur amongst the average-risk population which means the women with no family history.

4. Exercise reduces risk. Breaking a sweat for 30 minutes most days can help reduce risk by as much as 20%.

5. Having one first-degree relative with breast cancer can double your risk.

6. Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam by a health care provider every three years, especially if they are from a high risk family.

7. All breast cancers are not the same, just as breast tumors do not all grow at the same rate or spread in the same way.

8. White women are more likely to receive a diagnosis of breast cancer but black women have a higher mortality rate.

9. Most women find their own breast cancer from their normal routines like showering, getting dressed and not during systematic monthly breast self-exam.

10. Good news is you don’t have to go through it alone, visit the Cancer Association of Zimbabwe and learn more about breast cancer. They are also offering free Breast Examinations for the period 1 – 30 October 2015. Early detection saves lives.