Cancer prevention info for Women!!! ;)

No matter what kind it is, everyone is affected by cancer. Whether you know someone who has a cousin who's daughter's niece has breast cancer, it affects everyone! I found some great tips in the May 9 issue of Woman's day that I have to share with everyone. Personally, My uncle died in February of lung cancer, a childhood friend died at age 24 of lymphoma lukemia, and my grandfather is currently battling prostate cancer. I also worked with an incredible woman who was a 2 time survivor of breast cancer, and another close friend battled cervical cancer and survived. So it truly affects everyone. These are the most common female cancers:

Cervical Cancer

Most at risk are women who have certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), but it typically afffects women over 30.

• Possible signs: abnormal vaginal bleeding, spotting or discharge, bleeding after sex
• Preventative measures: among others-Regular PAP smears, no smoking

Uterine Cancer

Most at risk are women who are obese, infertile, or have menstural problems; also those who have a family history of uterine cancer. It is most common after menopause, especially between age 60 to 75

• Possible signs: unusual vaginal bleeding, spotting or discharge; heavy mentrual bleeding; postmenopausal bleeding or spotting
• Preventative Measures: Avoid prolonged exposure to unopposed estrogen, lose excess weight

Ovarian Cancer

Most at risk are women who don't have children, or haven't used birth control; women who have history of ovarian or breast cancer in the family. It occurs most frequently between ages 50 and 75.

• Possible signs: unexplained bloateing, pelvic discomfort, abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain and swelling of the abdomen, changes in bowel function (ie consitpation, diarrhea, or gas), mild nausea. Quick note- by the time those symptoms show up, the cancer is usually in an advanced stage, and there are few symptoms early on.
• Preventative measures: use oral contraceptives, breastfeed for as long as possible when you do have children.

Breast Cancer

Perhaps the most common cancer, at least the most talked about. Women who have a family history of breast cancer are at risk, as well as women who have gone through puberty before age 12, or gone through menopause after age 55. It is most common in women over 65.

• Possible signs: A lump in your breast, spontaneous nipple discharge, changes in the skin on your breast
• Preventative measures: regular exercise, weight control, limiting alcohol, diet, homone therapy (only discussed with your doc.)

There is more info on each in the magazine. Please pick up a copy of the May 9 issue of Women's Day, or go to www.womansday.com to subcribe to the magazine.

Also, if you have been affected by breast cancer, my friend Jennifer has been trying to raise money to donate to a breast cancer charity. Please check out Pixels for Breast Cancer and donate today!! 50% of each donation will go to breast cancer awareness!

This post is sponsered by www.askgeekgirl.com