Home / News & Events

Breast Health & Cancer Prevention

October 2, 2023

BCAM Breast Health Blog Image

This October, in observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, KBFPC is sharing a series of informational posts about breast health, cancer prevention, and screening methods. We hope to broaden people’s understanding of the risk of breast cancer and available prevention methods, and provide information that can help you protect yourself and your loved ones.

Follow along on Instagram or Facebook and learn more about breast cancer screenings at KBFPC.

Early Detection & Self-Checks

Green graphic of pink Breast Cancer Awareness Month ribbon and Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic logo. Two oranges, “Time to Get in Touch with Yourself! Learn about the three important steps to breast self exams.”#feelingmyself …

Taking the time each month to give yourself an exam is a great way to understand what is “normal” for your breasts and catch any significant changes. The most accurate and effective way to get checked is by seeing your medical provider every year for a clinical breast exam and a mammogram (if appropriate), but self checks are also an important part of monitoring your breast health.

So this October (and every month!) get in touch with yourself: learn about the three phases of a self breast exam as recommended by the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Green graphic with pink Breast Cancer Awareness Month ribbon and Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic logo. Drawing of topless woman with hands on hips looking in mirror, “In Front of the Mirror: With your arms at your sides, inspect your breasts for changes in the shape, the skin, or the nipples. Next, press your palms on your hips to flex your chest muscles. Look for any dimpling or puckering, especially if only on one side. Remember it’s okay that they don’t match — it’s rare for breasts to be perfectly symmetrical!” Green graphic of pink Breast Cancer Awareness Month ribbon and Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic logo. Drawing of topless woman lying down with hand on breast, “Lying Down: Lying down spreads the breast tissue evenly along your chest. Put one arm behind your head. Using the opposite hand move the flats of your 3 middle fingers around your breast, covering the entire breast area and armpit. Feel for any new lumps or hardened knots. Also squeeze the nipple to check for discharge. Repeat these steps for the other side.” Green graphic of pink Breast Cancer Awareness Month ribbon and Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic logo. Drawing of woman standing in pink shirt with hands on breast, “When Getting Dressed: Using the flats of your 3 middle fingers, check the entire breast and armpit area. Feel for any changes such as new lumps or hardened knots. Repeat these steps for the other side.” Green graphic of pink Breast Cancer Awareness Month ribbon and Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic logo. Drawing of a doctor with speech bubble, “But remember - the best way to get checked is to see a medical provider for a clinical breast exam and a mammogram (if appropriate).”

Genetic Testing

Photo of a KBFPC employee in a pink shirt, listening to a (mock) client with an empathetic smile, with a pink ribbon graphic, the Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic logo, and "Know Your Risk."

Should you take a hereditary cancer test?

If you have many relatives with breast cancer, you’re likely curious about your own risk for developing cancer or why it might be common in your family. KBFPC offers a simple test for people with strong family history of certain cancers that analyzes your DNA for genes that could increase your risk for cancer or impact future treatment.

The Empower Hereditary Cancer Test from Natera Genetics uses a blood or saliva sample to help you get more answers about cancer patterns in your family. Cost varies according to the screenings selected and any insurance coverage, but KBFPC’s sliding fee scale applies to the cost of your visit – and the cost of the test may be offset by other financial programs.

If you want to learn more about whether a hereditary cancer test is right for you, call KBFPC to schedule a consultation.

Lifestyle Choices

When considering breast health and cancer risks, there are three major lifestyle choices KBFPC providers may recommend to help you feel your best and improve your odds!

Photo with “Reduce Breast Cancer Risk” tips, a Breast Cancer Awareness Month pink ribbon graphic, and the Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic logo: “Up Your Activity” a woman with grey hair in a movement class [credit Wellness Gallery Catalyst Foundation/Pexels]

Make a goal to move your body for 30 minutes everyday or get a few hours of physical activity each week, in whatever way is best for you. Local resources like Homer Community Recreation offer a variety of affordable classes and programs to help you exercise, strengthen your body, and build community relationships – all are important for your health! Plus, people who are past menopause benefit even more from regular physical activity.

Photo with “Reduce Breast Cancer Risk” tips, a Breast Cancer Awareness Month pink ribbon graphic, and the Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic logo: “Reduce Tobacco Use” a young woman in a vape cloud [credit Rushay Booysen/Pexels]

Nicotine, tobacco, and other chemicals inhaled from vaping or smoking cigarettes harm your lungs and heart are one of the highest risks for breast cancer (and others). Quitting or cutting back is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, and increases your chances of survival if you are diagnosed with breast cancer. The AK Quitline can support you in breaking addiction and reducing your tobacco use.

Photo with “Reduce Breast Cancer Risk” tips, a Breast Cancer Awareness Month pink ribbon graphic, and the Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic logo: “Diversify Your Diet” a woman eating a tomato in a greenhouse [credit Yan Krukau/Pexels]

The rich nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants found in different fruits and vegetables help your immune system and offer anti-inflammatory benefits! Try to eat more produce of all colors (even purple!), whole grains, nuts, and beans. Try to limit saturated fats, red and processed meats, prepared foods, and alcohol. Local resources include the AK Food Hub for seasonal access to local harvests, and the Homer Community Food Pantry, the Anchor Point Food Pantry, or the Kenai Peninsula Food Bank. Information about SNAP benefits/food stamps is also available at your local Public Assistance Office.

As always, please discuss any health questions or any questions with your medical provider, especially when starting a new exercise regimen.

Regular Screenings

Make sure you know where, when, and how to get your recommended imaging. This behind-the-scenes tour of the South Peninsula Hospital Imaging Department shows their state of the art mammography unit, with pro tips to help you feel ready to schedule your next (or first!) mammogram appointment. Remember, early detection is the best protection! Most people with breasts should get their first mammogram at age 40 – give yourself the best chance for a healthy future by getting checked for breast cancer early and often. To learn more or schedule your annual mammogram call KBFPC at 907-235-3436 or SPH Imaging at 907-235-0362.

KBFPC’s observance and education efforts are made possible by ongoing funding from the Alaska Run For Women.