Presbyterian | Fall 2018 | Your Story

There is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in this country. However, there are clear steps women can take to lower their risk. October, which is nationally recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is the best time to take these steps. One key safeguard is for women to keep a healthy weight, especially in midlife, and later. After menopause, most of the hormone estrogen in a woman’s body comes from fat cells. Estrogen can spur the growth of many breast tumors. Being overweight can raise breast cancer risk. Women may be more at risk for breast cancer if extra pounds settle on their waist, rather than their hips and thighs. Taking these extra steps may help women lower their risk for breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS): ● ● Carefully weigh the pros and cons of hormone therapy. Hormone therapy that uses both estrogen and progesterone can increase breast cancer risk. The short-term use of estrogen alone after menopause does not seem to raise the risk of developing breast cancer, but only women without a uterus may take estrogen alone. If a woman and her doctor agree that hormone therapy is necessary to ease bothersome menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, it is best to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time. ● ● Avoid alcohol. Drinking is clearly tied to a greater risk of getting breast cancer. In fact, your risk increases the more you drink. ● ● Be active. A growing body of research shows that exercise lowers breast cancer risk. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate- intensity or 75 minutes of high-intensity activity each week. But breast cancer can develop even with these precautions. This is why the ACS advises women at average risk of breast cancer to have mammograms starting at age 45. Regular mammograms (breast x-rays) can detect cancer in its early stages and give women a head start on potentially lifesaving treatment. If you are at a high risk for breast cancer, ask your doctor if you need other screening tests as well, such as an MRI scan. Your story Presbyterian Health Plan, Inc. P.O. Box 27489 Albuquerque, NM 87125-7489 www.phs.org Important plan information CC Standard U.S. Postage PAID Presbyterian Health Plan Make a diabetes care plan 6 Learn the risks of opioid use 3 INSIDE Fall 2018 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month A good time to consider breast health En español: Si usted desea obtener este boletín en español, llame al (505) 923-5200 o al 1-888-977-2333.