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By Jean Nash Wella
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. If you have not already had a mammogram, it is imperative that you get one and this month is as good a time to do it as any. I had my yearly mammogram in June and happy to say that there were no abnormalities. I’m taking this time to plead with you to have the test because according to a National Cancer Institute study, African American women are more than twice as likely to die from breast cancer than their white counterparts.
The reasons for the poorer outcomes in African American women are not fully understood, although the disease is frequently not discovered in black women, so they do not get medical attention until it is at a more advanced stage. This doesn’t totally explain the differences, however and new studies find similarities between the clinical presentation and course of the disease in Africans and African Americans, suggesting that genetic factors may play a significant role in the racial difference encountered in America.
Even if genetics is a cause, you can still avoid the other risk factors that contribute to the disease.That means taking charge of your health. Eat fruits and vegetables and whole grains.Avoid red meats. If you are overweight get on a diet and exercise plan and by all means, do not smoke.
Early detection is the key to survival if you do have breast cancer. Though mammograms do not show every breast mass, it is a good tool for initial screening. The American Cancer Society recommends a mammogram every year for women over 40.
The reality is that most women discover breast masses by themselves via breast self-examination. Through frequent examination we become more familiar with our breasts, so that subtle changes or abnormalities can be detected readily. Experts recommend monthly self-examination 7–10 days from the beginning of your menstrual cycle. If your periods are not regular or you are post-menopausal, perform the examination on the same day each month.
This is not just a message for women. Men should remind and encourage the women in their lives to be tested.
For more information and to find out where free mammograms are being offered this month contact the National Women’s Health Information Center (800-994-9662).
Our continuing series Saving Our Own Community focuses each month on individuals, groups and organizations that put forth a special effort to secure the future of our children and our culture. If you can suggest such an individual or organization, please let us know. We may feature them in an upcoming issue. Email me at JeanNashWells@verizon.net or call 973-233-9200.
Finally, look for a special concert by the amazing Kunjalo Music Ministries direct from South Africa in November. They’ll be performing in several venues in New York and New Jersey. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss. Look for detail online at thepositivecommunity.com and in next month’s issue.
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