October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. In the United States, 1 in 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Breast cancer can occur in men too. Thanks to early detection services such as screening mammograms, breast cancer has one of the highest survival rates. Different types of mammogram screening include digital mammograms and 3D Mammography or tomosynthesis.
Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment Saves Lives. Talk to your doctor about breast cancer screening. Healthy, active lifestyles can help prevent breast cancer. Tips to Prevent Breast Cancer from Mayo Clinic.
Stress and Cancer.While there is conflicting data in a review of the literature whether or not stress causes breast cancer, people facing a diagnosis of cancer may find the physical, emotional, and social effects of the disease to be stressful. Being able to use effective coping strategies to deal with stress, such as relaxation and stress management techniques, can been lower the incidence of depression and anxiety. According to research, relaxation training during chemotherapycan reduce anxiety and other adverse events in postoperative breast cancer patients.
Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines from the Society of Integrative Oncology for the Use of Integrative Therapies and Breast Cancer. These include relaxation, mind-body therapies (meditation, hypnosis, yoga), massage, music therapy and acupuncture, with some specific recommendations for symptom management mentioned in the guidelines. While more research is needed, reiki (ray-key) and qi gong are offered in a number of cancer centers due to their ease of use, gentle nature and relaxation benefits.
Talk to Your Doctor before using over-the-counter medications, dietary supplements, herbal products and integrative therapies. Some may not be indicated or even contraindicated for your situation. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center has on-line information about herbal products. The National Institutes of Health also has information on herb-drug interactions.
Special Offer from Dreamtime Wellness ™ During the Month of October: Anyone receiving treatment for breast cancer may enjoy a session for relaxation and stress management at discounted prices.Call or email to schedule your appointment: info@dreamtimewellness.com or 978-283-4258.
Enjoy today in a healthy way,
Karen
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.
Sources and More Information:
American Cancer Society Facts and Figures
NIH Relaxation During Chemotherapy Breast Cancer