Well, it is possible, and terribly true. Three weeks prior to her 34th birthday with no risk factors (other than being female), Renee was diagnosed with squamous cell ductal carcinoma of the breast. My inability to comprehend this was in part due to my own reliance on risk factors to be the sole predictor for breast cancer. I somehow felt comforted by the false sense of security that gave me. The reality is that risk factors are merely a means of forming statistical odds, not diagnosing patients, or forming a health prevention plan. Although those statistics are useful in targeting population for screening and intervention, there will always be those patients that fall outside of the lines. These are the cases where good health habits, and a well thought out health maintenance plan will aid in saving lives.
Four years later I am happy to tell you that Renee is remarkably health (and the mother of a beautiful baby boy), because she practiced good health maintenance habits. Her lifestyle included a healthy balanced diet, regular exercise, and monthly self breast exams. She found the lump herself and was diagnosed early enough to treat her cancer effectively. Because of the way she had previously treated her body, it was in the best condition possible to fight off her disease. What strikes me most about this case is that it could be anybody. So, this being the new year, and the traditional times for resolutions, I urge you to make these three valuable things a part of your life long lifestyle:
Eat Right. If you struggle with this consider making an appointment with a dietician or your health care provider for suggestion. For those who may have a few extra pounds to shed, think about joining a weight loss group that will provide you with support in you endeavor.
Exercise. You don't need to join a fancy gym, or buy expensive equipment. Consider starting by walking 3 - 4 times per week. Before starting any new exercise program consult your health care provider.
Perform monthly self breast exams. I often have patients tell me they don't perform this exam because they don't know what they are feeling for. That is very simple to remedy. Make an appointment with your woman's health professional and ask them to teach you. Most offices have a silicone breast model for that purpose, and shower card to remind you at home.
By incorporating these valuable steps into your lifestyle, you are dramatically improving your odds of living a long, health life.
Wishing you a happy, healthy 2006, 2007, 2008...
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