How I’m Reducing My Risk Of Breast Cancer

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. As a doctor and a woman, this is a cause that I am very passionate about. After all, statistics show that one in eight women will develop breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. And, 85% of the time these cancers occur in women who have NO family history of breast cancer.
Whether you’ve been there yourself, or have stood along side a friend or family member who has, we all know how devastating a breast cancer diagnosis can feel.

While every case is different, the good news is that there is plenty that we CAN do to help us reduce our risk of breast cancer. And, let me tell you … even though it’s not easy, I’m doing it all. Because my breasts, my health, and my livelihood. They’re all very important to me, and I’m going to hold on to them as long as I possibly can. Here’s how …
Genetic testing {including BRCA}. While it can be scary, I do recommend genetic testing for anyone who has a family history of breast cancer. Through these screenings, we look at breast cancer, as well as other common cancers such as colon, melanoma, pancreatic and more. The more you know, the more can you be proactive.
My diet. To me eating healthy isn’t something that I like to do. It’s something that I have to do. In order to ward of cancer and other life threatening diseases I stick to a ketogenic diet {90% of the time}. Whenever possible I pass on added sugar and I take Vitamin D to supplement what I’m getting from food.
Safer birth control. Studies have shown a connection between synthetic progestin and increased risk of breast cancer. As a woman who is done having children, I’ve chosen MyControl instead of other birth control alternatives. This gives me the protection I need without the gamble.  
Optimal hormone levels. These days it seems there are hormones in everything that we ingest, so naturally a lot more people are suffering from imbalances. Along with eating organic, hormone-free foods, I use testosterone pellets and bioidentxal progesterone {not to be confused with progestins, found in birth control}.
Regular screenings. No matter how healthy I’m feeling I make sure to stay up to date on my regular screenings. Knowing that mammograms have a 30% miss rate I even pay out of pocket to have an MRI in addition to the regular screening. For me, the added peace of mind is absolutely worth the investment.
Remember, the goal is to remain healthy and happy for many years to come. If you are looking to make lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of breast cancer and other disease, give us a call. Even though October is the official month of breast cancer awareness, we’re here for you whenever you need us! Our heart goes out to all who have been directly or indirectly impacted by this terrible disease. This month, we’re wearing pink for you <3.