The Importance of Breast Cancer Screening
Understanding the Prevalence of Breast Cancer
With 1 in 8 women diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, it’s essential to take control of your health.
Breast cancer is a widespread disease, but it’s important to remember that it’s not a death sentence. With advancements in prevention and detection, the survival rates for breast cancer have significantly improved. Chances are you know someone who has been diagnosed with the disease. Have you avoided getting screened because you don’t think you’re at risk? At this point, it’s not IF it’s going to be you or someone you know…it’s WHEN.
As we conclude Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is crucial to underscore the role of prevention and early detection. Despite the concerning rise in breast cancer incidence, our most powerful tools remain empowerment and proactive health measures. At Neighborhood Naturopathic, we are committed to empowering you to take control of your health.
Focusing on Early Detection:
Rest assured, we’re here to answer your questions and alleviate any fears you might have about getting screened for breast cancer. One thing we know for certain is that early detection significantly improves breast cancer outcomes. When detected and diagnosed early on, breast cancer is very treatable.
Here are some actions you can take in order to maintain optimal breast health:
- Breast Self-Exam – we teach this technique from a young age. Prevention starts with you and your awareness of your breasts and lymph nodes. Learn how to do a self-exam here.
- Routine Exam – take the time to meet with your provider and share any questions or concerns you have about breast health, cancer risk and screening. Let your provider be the expert on any lumps or nodules you notice.
- Calculate Your Risk – If you have never been diagnosed or have a prior family history of breast cancer, we suggest using the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool (the Gail model) to determine your risk. This tool takes into account factors such as age, ethnicity, and personal history to estimate your risk. If you have a family history of breast cancer, you can assess your risk via genetic testing, for example, the Color test, which can identify specific genetic mutations.
- Mammography – we encourage all women to get mammograms according to their primary care provider’s recommendations because they work and SAVE LIVES.
Early detection is vital. Please review these strategies at a more in-depth level, here.
Beyond Detection: Comprehensive Care for Breast Health
Whether you are working to prevent breast cancer or surviving the disease, Neighborhood Naturopathic offers additional approaches to support women and their breast health:
- Hormone Balancing: It has been suggested that balancing hormones can reduce your risk of being a breast cancer patient. Our team offers personalized plans to optimize hormone levels, potentially reducing risk factors.
- Nutritional Support: A balanced, nutrient-rich diet plays a significant role in overall health, including breast health. We can help develop a customized nutritional plan to support your needs.
- IV Therapy: IV nutrient infusions offer a targeted way to deliver essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants directly into the bloodstream, potentially boosting your immune system and overall well-being.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and prioritizing stress management are all essential for breast health. We can help you develop a personalized plan to incorporate these practices.
For women diagnosed with breast cancer, Neighborhood Naturopathic offers a support system that is complementary to your cancer care. We work alongside your medical team to keep your health optimal during treatment.
Let’s Talk Breast Health
At Neighborhood Naturopathic, we believe in empowering women to take charge of their breast health. This October, schedule a consultation with one of our providers to discuss your individual needs and explore the best health strategies for you. Learn more about how our doctors specialize in a functional approach to breast cancer prevention and treatment by scheduling a free 15-minute consultation at Neighborhood Naturopathic today!
Neighborhood Naturopathic serves the greater Minneapolis/ St. Paul area in Minnesota.