Did you know that breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States among women? According to The U.S. Breast Cancer Statistics, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Although many factors can affect the likelihood of a woman developing breast cancer, there are ways they can reduce the likelihood of it occurring and/or detect it early. Ladies, check out these ten habits you can incorporate into your life to reduce your risk.

Get Regular Mammograms

Starting at age 40, women should begin getting yearly mammograms. If you have a family history of breast cancer, your doctor may suggest yearly mammograms starting at age 26.

Perform Monthly Breast Exams

Examining your breast regularly can help identify any changes. Every month, use your hands to check your breasts for anything unusual such as:

  • Lumps
  • Changes in nipple shape
  • Changes in skin color
  • …and more.

“Phluff Your Girls”

This technique, developed by Cheryl Chapman, is an excellent way to keep the lymph flowing around your breasts. As you would phluff your pillow, you can “pluff” your breasts to relieve pain, reduce lumps, prevent breast cancer, and keep your breasts soft, healthy & happy.

Eat a Healthy Diet

You are what you eat. Eating healthy reduces the risk of developing cancer and can slow the disease’s progression if you are in the early stages.

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking plenty of water can help promote the healthy growth, survival, and reproduction of your body’s cells.

Exercise

Exercising helps your body regulate hormones and maintain a healthy weight.

Get Enough Sleep

Your body repairs itself while you sleep. Make sure you’re giving it enough time to do its job.

Self Care

Caring for others is important, but first, you must take care of yourself. Set aside some time to  do things that benefit your physical, emotional, and psychological health.

Get Regular Massages

There are many benefits to getting regular massages from a licensed massage therapist. Massages help regulate blood flow to parts of your body and make you feel relaxed.

Walk the Trail to Good Health with Spotswood Trail Massage.

Stay safe. Take early action. Click here or call us today to schedule your appointment with licensed massage therapist Kathy Volrath, LMT.