Pink Ribbons = Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Hey Y'all,

Run, walk, raise money and awareness for breast cancer not just this month but everyday. Those of you who've been here before or know me know that I lost two aunts to breast cancer. They were mothers, sisters, aunts and friends and now they are gone. I'm not sure if my aunts knew how to self test, I don't know if they knew what breast cancer really was and how it could take them out. Thankfully there are so many organizations involved in breast cancer research that there are millions more survivors than casualties of this horrific illness.

In research for this post I visited the Susan G. Komen for the Cure site and found some very interesting facts.

Here are 3 risk factors currently being researched.
Did you know?

• Migraine headaches are related to falling estrogen levels in a woman’s body and estrogen is related to breast cancer risk.
• Although it is not clear why, breast cancer is five percent more likely to occur in the left breast compared to the right breast. This difference prompted a theory that being left-handed may increase breast cancer risk. 
• One study found an increased risk of breast cancer among women who often ate French fries when they were preschool-aged (three to five years old). Because this is the first study to look at preschool diet and breast cancer risk, further studies are needed to confirm these findings. French fries and other foods cooked at high temperatures contain a chemical called acrylamide. Five large cohort studies have found no link between eating foods, like French fries, that contain acrylamide and breast cancer risk.

Interesting right? You can learn even more about the risk factors of breast cancer, additional research and so much more on the site. Please visit and donate if you can Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Also please remember to self test.

1) In the Shower 

Using the pads of your fingers, move around your entire breast in a circular pattern moving from the outside to the center, checking the entire breast and armpit area. Check both breasts each month feeling for any lump, thickening, or hardened knot. Notice any changes and get lumps evaluated by your healthcare provider.

2) In Front of a Mirror 

Visually inspect your breasts with your arms at your sides. Next, raise your arms high overhead.
Look for any changes in the contour, any swelling, or dimpling of the skin, or changes in the nipples. Next, rest your palms on your hips and press firmly to flex your chest muscles. Left and right breasts will not exactly match—few women's breasts do, so look for any dimpling, puckering, or changes, particularly on one side.

3) Lying Down

When lying down, the breast tissue spreads out evenly along the chest wall. Place a pillow under your right shoulder and your right arm behind your head. Using your left hand, move the pads of your fingers around your right breast gently in small circular motions covering the entire breast area and armpit.
Use light, medium, and firm pressure. Squeeze the nipple; check for discharge and lumps. Repeat these steps for your left breast.

Until next time... Be safe and healthy