2019 Paint the Paper Pink

Page 44 2019 Paint the Paper Pink Lincoln Daily News October 2019 screening and treatment, which are influenced by socio-economic factors, legislative policies, and distance to medical services. During 2016-2017, breast cancer was the leading cause of cancer deaths (surpassing lung cancer) among black women in 6 states (Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and South Carolina), as well as among white women in Utah. Prevention and early detection The overall declines in breast cancer death rates since 1989 have been attributed to both improvements in treatment and early detection by mammograms. Following American Cancer Society guidelines for breast cancer screening can help women find breast cancer earlier, when treatments are more likely to be effective. Women can help lower their risk of breast cancer by making healthy lifestyle changes. Get to and stay at a healthy weight. Studies show obesity and excess weight increase the risk of developing breast cancer, especially after menopause. Losing even a small amount of weight has health benefits and is a good place to start. Be physically active. Growing evidence suggests that women who get regular physical activity have a lower risk of breast cancer compared to women who get no exercise. Doing even a little physical activity beyond your regular daily routine can have many health benefits. Limit alcohol. Many studies have confirmed that drinking alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer in women. Avoid tobacco. Some studies have shown that heavy smoking over a long time might be linked to a slightly higher risk of breast cancer, especially in women who begin smoking before they give birth to their first child. Quitting has numerous health benefits. Written By: Stacy Simon Senior Editor, News American Cancer Society