Think Pink

It is October and all women are geared to "think pink". I am for many reasons. I have 2 Aunts that are SURVIVORS. Both have remained in great condition over the years, but I am sure breast cancer is never far from their minds.

This is a time for those of us not afflicted to be affected to be pro-active and encourage EVERY woman we know and love to get a breast exam. Tell them to start by doing a self-exam at home and to follow it up with a visit to their doctor.

Mammograms are encouraged for women. According to the American Cancer Society's website:

Women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.

Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam (CBE) as part of a periodic (regular) health exam by a health professional, at least every 3 years. After age 40, women should have a breast exam by a health professional every year.

Breast self exam (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20s. Women should be told about the benefits and limitations of BSE. Women should report any breast changes to their health professional right away.

Women at high risk (greater than 20% lifetime risk) should get an MRI and a mammogram every year. Women at moderately increased risk (15% to 20% lifetime risk) should talk with their doctors about the benefits and limitations of adding MRI screening to their yearly mammogram. Yearly MRI screening is not recommended for women whose lifetime risk of breast cancer is less than 15%.

Tell someone you love today or if you want, send them here and I will tell them. Fly that Pink Ribbon high and Save 2nd Base.

Mrs. B