National Got Checked Day - Can you Say Yes?

 Today is National Got Checked Day - A day to discuss the importance of breast health.

Breast cancer is the number one cause of death in women between 35 and 54. But in most cases it can be caught early enough to survive. 

Breast health and proper screening can save lives. Being aware of the risks and doing what you can to keep those risks to a minimum is important to females of every age. It's also important for men and boys to be aware of the risks. Breast cancer can strike anyone. 

Women should do self exams every month about a week after their period is finished. 

At first they will feel a little strange. The idea is to become familiar with how your breasts feel - all the lumps and bumps. Once you become familiar with what's normal for you, any changes will be noticable and you can have them checked. 

I knew someone who was doing a self exam and found a tiny, suspicious lump the mammogram did not pick up. That exam saved her life! She is now cancer free. I had another friend that never did self exams. Ever. At 40 she had her first mammogram and was found to have breast cancer. Even after a double, radical mastectomy, she lost her life. Had she done a self exam she may have found it early enough to save her life. 

Every woman should begin having mammograms every year at least by age 40 - and continue to have them every year well until 75 years old.

There are other factors to consider about your breast health. Family history and lifestyle are huge factors in considering risks. 

You can't do much about family history except be aware - but you can control your lifestyle. Eat less sugar and processed foods. Exercise regularly. And get your screening done without fail!

Have a conversation with your doctor to discuss your risk factors. 

National Got Checked? Day honors Donna Cioffi - the founder and President of First Company Pink. (501c3 nonprofit).  Her organization started the day in 2021 - 

So make sure you can answer YES - then spread the word!