Pink October invites us to reflect on something essential: taking care of our health. Breast cancer is a reality that many women face, and awareness about prevention can make all the difference. Knowing that there are ways to take care of ourselves and act preventively is a powerful tool.
There are simple attitudes that can help prevent this disease:
Maintain a balanced diet: Nourishing our bodies with healthy foods strengthens our overall health.
Practice physical activities: Moving your body, whether through walking, dancing or sports, helps with balance and weight control.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: These habits increase the risk of several diseases, including breast cancer.
Perform regular checkups: Medical monitoring, especially from the age of 40 with mammography, is essential to detect any changes early on.
Additionally, self-exams are a way to connect with our own bodies. Taking a moment to observe and feel our breasts can help us notice something that wasn’t there before. Here’s how to do it:
In front of the mirror: Observe your breasts, notice any changes in size, shape, or if there are any dimples or secretions.
Standing, while showering or changing clothes: Using your fingers, make circular movements around your breasts, feeling for anything different, such as lumps.
Lying down: Repeat the movement, observing calmly.
IMPORTANT! Self-examination is not a substitute for mammograms, but it is a way to be aware of your body. If you notice anything different, don't hesitate to see a doctor. The sooner we discover something, the greater the chances of treatment and a cure.
Taking care of our health is not just an act of prevention, it is a gesture of love for ourselves. Pink October is a reminder that women's health should be a priority, and that together, with information and support, we can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.