October
is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when much attention is focused
on the rising incidence of breast cancer and the benefits of screening
and early detection of this condition.
In the U.S. there is a
large amount of fear surrounding the subject of cancer, yet the disease
is more predominant in the U.S. than in other Western countries. The
media perpetuates this, and the anxiety associated with cancer can wreak
havoc on our immune systems. So how do we approach breast cancer
awareness in a positive way, and without fear?
Chicago Healers
Practitioner and Holistic Physician Dr. Marilyn Mitchell, MD offers
three positive perspectives to help take charge of your health and
protect yourself as far as cancer is concerned:
Physical Health:
-
Screen DIY first. Screening
is an important aspect of breast health awareness. Begin with breast
self exam (BSE), a systematic palpation of the breast performed once per
month. Women often ignore their breasts, and a regular self exam can be
performed with an attitude of bringing positive energy and appreciation
to the breasts.
-
Don’t forget your doctor. A doctor can
offer you a technological breast screening, which should be scheduled
every 1 to 2 years. There are several types of technological screenings
for breast health:
1) Mammogram - The standard screening tool for
detecting breast cancer and benign breast disease. Mammograms are able
to detect masses before they are palpable.
2) Ultrasound – Helpful
in imaging cysts. This device is usually an adjunct to mammogram, as it
does not image solid tumors as clearly as fluid-filled ones.
3) MRI – This is sometimes used as a follow up to mammogram.
4)
Thermogram - A screening exam that accesses the heat or thermal changes
in the breast (reflecting blood flow). This does not involve radiation
or compression of the breast. There is much interest growing around this
technology, but it is not yet in widespread use, and the long term data
and success at detection is not yet determined.
-
Take your vitamins. Certain natural supplements and antioxidants taken on a regular basis can help the body fight off cancerous cells.
-
Toss the burnt popcorn. Carcinogens
are often linked to cancer, so it is important to distance oneself from
carcinogens and other irritants as much as possible. That said, you can
have a summer barbecue, but try not to grill out too often.
-
Evaluate your risk factors. Do
you have a family history of ovarian cancer? Don’t wait to find this
out before it’s too late – knowing this information can help you take
the necessary steps to decrease your risk of having cancer.
-
Don’t forget the basics. Sleep, exercise, and a healthful diet are all building blocks for a healthy life.
Emotional Health:
-
Build your support system. Strong
relationships with friends and family boost the immune system and lead
to a long, healthy life. These people will be there for you to rely on,
both in sickness and health.
-
Teamwork counts. Encourage
friends and family to make healthy changes to their lifestyle as well.
This will make healthy habits easier and more fun to adopt.
Spiritual Health:
-
Think positively. Surrounding
yourself with positive thoughts and eliminating negative thoughts can
be very beneficial in eliminating stress. This will significantly affect
your well-being for the better.
-
Nurture yourself. Self-compassion
is a key ingredient to a sound mind and body. Practice self-love by
treating yourself to bubble baths, a nice book...things that make you
happy.
-
Limit your media intake. Overdosing on TV and
sensational media can be a source of negativity and stress that you
don’t need. Think about cutting down on this and replacing the time you
would spend watching the news with a positive activity you enjoy.
-
Be grateful. Nothing
beats negative energy quite like counting your blessings. By regularly
thinking about what you are grateful for in life, this will make you in
good spirits which is also good for your body.
By tending to our
physical, emotional, and spiritual health, we can open our heart centers
to ourselves and work to lead a healthy lifestyle. If you get a
diagnosis of breast cancer, be sure to build a team of support around
you and a holistic plan of care. Make sure you have medical,
emotional,
nutritional support, as well as supportive
relationships. Seek out a support group or
therapist
if you need it. Be sure to choose positive thought patterns to support
you. Become empowered to be the leader in your health care.
