Mammograms Aren't The Answer for Breast Cancer Prevention
Every year during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, women are bombarded with messages about the importance of mammograms. Currently, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American Cancer Society and National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommend annual mammography for average-risk women aged 40 and older. While I'm thankful for circumstances where screening has allowed women to achieve timely cancer diagnoses, mammography isn't designed to prevent breast cancer.As a holistic gynecologist, I like to take a comprehensive approach to wellness and prefer to focus on prevention. That's why I like to think of October as Breast Health Month rather than Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I try to move the focus from cancer and the fear that it can invoke. Instead, I try to empower women to improve their overall health and vitality. In that way, I partner with them to reduce their risk of developing cancer.Cancer does not grow in a healthy body. However, there is more to total health than whether or not you feel sick. Factors such as nutrition, quality sleep, emotional health and physical activity have a significant influence. The strength of your immune system is also affected by chronic inflammation and chronic infections. A holistic, complete health or integrative practitioner can support you in getting to the root of issues that may be affecting your ability to thrive.
Here are 3 simple steps to you can take now:
Clean up your diet - The Standard American Diet is high in sugar, overly processed and heavy on chemicals. Cutting out sugar, eating real food that doesn't come from a box or a package and choosing organic, hormone-free items are positive steps.
Detox your environment - Your hormones are not your enemy but hormone-like chemicals in your food, cleaning supplies and body care products can disrupt your hormonal balance and increase your risk for cancer. Check out my detox post to learn how to reduce your exposure.
Slow down and breathe - Stress is an often forgotten factor that influences wellness. Take time daily to meditate or pray and reflect on things that you are thankful for. Make time for quality relationships. Get out in nature. Create opportunities for your body to decompress and unwind through pilates, yoga or stretching.
Screening
Screening and regular health check-ups are important tools in achieving and maintaining wellness. I believe that best screening tools for breast health provide timely information without increasing your risk for unnecessary invasive procedures. They also should not increase your risk of developing breast cancer. "The Promise" is a documentary available on FMTV.com that exposes the controversies surrounding current breast cancer screening protocols. The link is available on my Facebook page. It's worth signing up for a 10-day trial of FMTV.com just to watch this film.
What if I have a family history of breast cancer?
I have an uncle, an aunt and a cousin who are breast cancer conquerors. Family history matters but your genes are not your destiny. You have the power to impact your health through the choices you make. Recommendations for breast surveillance may be different depending on your genetic risk. Become educated on your options and communicate with a trusted health care professional to determine the best screening and prevention plan for you.
What if I feel a lump in my breast?
Body awareness is important. It is good to have intimate knowledge of your breasts and to know what is normal for your body. If you notice a lump, skin changes, abnormal discharge, persistent pain or other problems with your breast, follow up with your trusted health care professional. Let your decisions come from a place of empowerment rather than fear.
Resources
I highly recommend Dr. Veronique Desaulniers' book "Heal Breast Cancer Naturally:7 Essential Steps to Beating Breast Cancer". This was a valuable tool for me when I found a breast lump last year but wanted a holistic and minimally invasive approach to my own breast health.
Take advantage of The Truth About Cancer Ultimate Live Symposium October 14th to 16th. This is a unique opportunity for you to glean from top wellness experts and obtain further information on how to revitalize your health!