Breast Cancer Awareness Month

It's hard to miss Breast Cancer Awareness month in October. Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among U.S. women. One in eight women will hear they have breast cancer in their lifetime.

This October, challenge yourself to do more than wear pink in support. Take charge of your health by starting some small lifestyle habits that can help reduce your risk of developing cancer. Getting healthier is good for you and will help you build a healthier future for your baby.

Eat a healthy diet

Reduce your risk for a variety of cancers by eating a diet that is largely plant-based, low in red and processed meats and low in added sugars. Two examples are the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet. Both diets encourage you to eat healthy fats, whole grains, fruits and veggies, and nuts and beans. Both go light on processed foods.

Watch what you drink

Heavy drinking puts you at greater risk for several cancers. Research suggests that even modest or moderate alcohol intake carries increased risk. For the lowest risk, consider cutting back on alcohol.

Get recommended cancer screenings

Tests such as mammograms are designed to find cancers early, when they are most treatable. Ask your doctor what is recommended for you.

Maintain a healthy body weight

Obesity is linked to increased risk for a dozen or more cancers. Exercise can reduce cancer risk by helping keep your weight down. It can also keep stress and inflammation in control, both of which are linked to increased risk for cancer. Each week aim for:

• 150 to 300 minutes of moderate exercise, or
• 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous exercise