It is that time of year again.  October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month.  It's an issue very close to my heart, figuratively and literally.  Why?  Because I have breasts.  And my mother is a two-time survivor.  Self-exam and early detection were the key to survival in my mother's case. 

One in eight American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.  Wherever you are, take a minute to look around the room and count the women.  Now do the math.  Sobering.  I urge you to read the statistics at www.breastcancer.org 

I offer you the following tips when performing self-examination:

• Look in the mirror to notice any visual inconsistencies between right and left breast.  Discoloration or puckering should be addressed;

• Exam both breasts at the same time.  Cup your breasts and use the heels of your hands as well as your fingertips to examine right and left simultaneously.  It is easier to detect inconsistencies when comparing right and left at the same time.  Remember to move hands outward toward your underarms as well to examine lymph nodes;

• Do this at least once per month.  The week after your menstrual period recommended.

Stay educated.  Self exam.  Get screened.  God bless you.

Thank you for reading.
Tamara ZumMallen, L.Ac.