Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Building Wealth for Women’s Health
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the disease and support those affected. This year, we’re also using this month to talk about the importance of building wealth for women’s health.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States, with an estimated one in eight women developing the disease in their lifetime. While the survival rate for breast cancer has improved significantly in recent years, it remains a serious disease that can have a significant impact on a woman’s life and finances.
One of the best ways to protect yourself from the financial impact of breast cancer is to have a financial plan in place. This includes having adequate health insurance, as well as savings to cover out-of-pocket medical expenses and lost income.
If you’re a woman, it’s important to start building wealth early in life. This will give you more time for your money to grow and help you to achieve your financial goals. There are a number of ways to build wealth, including:
- Saving regularly: Even if you can only save a small amount each month, it will add up over time. Set up a direct deposit from your paycheck to a savings account so that you’re saving money without even having to think about it.
- Investing: Investing is a great way to grow your money over time. There are a variety of different investment options available, so it’s important to do your research and choose investments that are right for you.
- Starting a business: If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, starting a business can be a great way to build wealth. However, it’s important to remember that starting a business is risky and it takes time and effort to be successful.
If you’re already diagnosed with breast cancer, there are a number of financial resources available to help you. You may be eligible for government programs or financial assistance from non-profit organizations. There are also a number of websites and resources that can provide you with information on managing your finances during cancer treatment.
Here are some additional tips for building wealth for women’s health:
- Make financial planning a priority: Talk to a financial advisor to develop a financial plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
- Protect your income: Consider purchasing disability insurance to protect your income if you become unable to work due to illness or injury.
- Save for retirement: Women tend to live longer than men, so it’s important to save enough money for retirement. Aim to save at least 15% of your income for retirement each year.
- Get involved in breast cancer research and advocacy: There are a number of ways to get involved in breast cancer research and advocacy. You can donate to breast cancer organizations, volunteer your time, or participate in advocacy campaigns.
Building wealth is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for women. Breast cancer is a serious disease that can have a significant financial impact on a woman’s life. By taking steps to build wealth early in life, women can protect themselves from the financial impact of breast cancer and other health challenges.
Additional Information on Breast Cancer:
Finding Breast Cancer Early
There are two main ways to find breast cancer early:
- Breast self-exams: Breast self-exams are a way for women to check their breasts for lumps or other changes. It is recommended that women start doing breast self-exams at the age of 20 and continue doing them throughout their lives.
- Mammograms: Mammograms are X-rays of the breasts that can detect breast cancer early, even before it can be felt. The American Cancer Society recommends that women start getting annual mammograms at the age of 40.
The Difference in Treatment When Breast Cancer Is Found Early
Breast cancer that is found early is often easier to treat and has a better prognosis. When breast cancer is found early, it is less likely to have spread to other parts of the body. This means that smaller tumors can be removed with surgery, and less aggressive radiation and chemotherapy treatments may be needed.
How Women Can Take the Initiative in Self-Examination
Women can take the initiative in self-examination by learning how to do a breast self-exam and by doing them regularly. Breast self-exams should be done once a month, a few days after your period ends. If you are no longer having periods, you should choose a day each month to do your breast self-exam.
To do a breast self-exam, follow these steps:
- Stand in front of a mirror with your arms at your sides. Look for any changes in the size, shape, or appearance of your breasts.
- Raise your arms above your head and look for any changes in the size, shape, or appearance of your breasts.
- Lie down on your back with your right arm behind your head. Place your left hand on your right breast and use the pads of your fingers to feel for any lumps or changes in the tissue. Repeat on the left side.
- Sit up with your right arm behind your head. Place your left hand on your right breast and use the pads of your fingers to feel for any lumps or changes in the tissue. Repeat on the left side.
If you find any lumps or changes in your breasts, be sure to see your doctor right away.
When to Start Getting Tested and How Often to Get Tested
The American Cancer Society recommends that women start getting annual mammograms at the age of 40. Women with a high risk of breast cancer, such as those with a family history of the disease, may need to start getting mammograms earlier or more often.
Talk to your doctor about when you should start getting tested for breast cancer and how often you should get tested. Your doctor will take into account your age, family history, and other risk factors to determine the best screening schedule for you.
Early detection is key to fighting breast cancer. By taking the initiative in self-examination and getting regular mammograms, women can increase their chances of finding breast cancer early and getting the treatment they need.
The following are some of the most common signs and symptoms of breast cancer:
- A new lump or thickening in the breast or underarm.
- A change in the size or shape of a breast
- Dimpling or puckering of the breast skin
- A rash or redness of the breast skin
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk
- Nipple retraction (turning inward)
- Pain in the breast or nipple
There are a number of healthy nutritional tips that women can use in the fight against breast cancer. Some of the most important include:
- Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants, which can help to protect cells from damage. Aim to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
- Choose lean protein sources. Lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, beans, and lentils, are low in saturated fat and calories. Saturated fat can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
- Limit processed foods. Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugar, and salt. These foods can increase the risk of developing a number of chronic diseases, including breast cancer.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for breast cancer. Aim to maintain a healthy weight by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
In addition to these general tips, there are several specific foods and nutrients that have been shown to be beneficial for breast health. These include:
- Fiber: Fiber can help to reduce the levels of estrogen in the blood. Estrogen is a hormone that can promote the growth of breast cancer cells. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties. They may also help to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish, flaxseed, and walnuts.
- Soy: Soy contains compounds called isoflavones, which have estrogen-like properties. Isoflavones may help to protect against breast cancer by blocking the effects of estrogen in the body. Good sources of soy include tofu, tempeh, and edamame.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for cell growth and differentiation. It may also help to protect against breast cancer. Good sources of vitamin D include sunlight, fatty fish, and fortified milk and cereal.
It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all diet for preventing breast cancer. The best diet for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to create a healthy eating plan that is right for you.
