October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Matrix Direct Newsletter - October 2011

The Power of Pink! Breast Cancer Awareness Month

It's that time of year when pink becomes the national color, as the country celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness Month. From people participating in walks and runs, to the National Football League donning pink gear, it's an annual tradition with a powerful purpose: to heighten awareness of breast cancer, lower risk, increase early detection and raise money to help treat and cure the disease.

To celebrate and do our part, Matrix Direct is spreading the word about facts, prevention tips and ways to get involved. The more we all know, the more we can help!

Making steady gains in the fight

In 2011, the American Cancer Society estimates that:

• There is a 12% chance for a woman to develop invasive breast cancer, meaning 1 out of 8 women.
• 230,480 women and 2,140 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year.
• Approximately 57,650 will be diagnosed with carcinoma in situ (CIS), which is the earliest form of breast cancer and is non-invasive.
• About 39,520 women and 450 men will die from breast cancer this year.¹

The good news? Today, there are an estimated 2.5 million cancer survivors living in the United States.¹ And according to the National Cancer Institute, the five-year survival rate for women with breast cancer is an encouraging 90 percent.²

Developing breast cancer or dying from it is on the decline. And it's directly linked to awareness, early detection, prevention and medical treatments.

Knowing you can have a direct impact on your own health and in helping others is encouraging. Here are some ways.

Self exams and mammograms

It's no secret that self exams and mammograms play a huge role in early detection. According to CancerProgress.net, mammograms and other screening techniques are responsible for 90 percent of breast cancers being detected at an early stage, when the chance of successful treatment is highest.³

If you or someone you know would like assistance in getting a free or low-cost mammogram, there are many programs available. Local hospitals, health departments and women's centers frequently offer them. Here are two others:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
National Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention Program
Telephone: 1-800-232-4636
http://apps.nccd.cdc.gov/cancercontacts/nbccedp/contacts.asp

National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Cancer Information Services
1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)

Add some "power foods" to your diet

Research shows that diet can play a significant role in lowering your risk of breast cancer (and cancer in general). Here are some specific "power foods."

Nutty about walnuts. One study shows that walnuts might provide the essential omega-3 fatty acids, phytosterols and antioxidants that reduce the risk of breast cancer.⁴

Flexible flax. Flaxseed and oil have long been touted for their potential in preventing cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Recently, flaxseed has garnered attention for its lignans, which can act as anti-estrogens or weak estrogens, and might help prevent breast cancer. Flax seed is quite versatile - it comes in seeds, flour, meal, and oil.⁵

Beautiful brassicas. The brassica family of vegetables includes broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbages, cauliflower and kale. All of these are proving to pack a punch in preventing cancer.6 Not crazy about these veggies? Try a new recipe, or switch up how you make them by roasting, grilling, or sautéing.

Enjoy the slide! To watch a slideshow of the top cancer-fighting foods, click here.

Get involved

Why not celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Month by getting involved? Even a small effort can help to heighten awareness and raise money. There are many ways you can participate.

Walk, run, and have some fun! To find a walk or run, visit:

American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
http://main.acsevents.org/site/PageServer?pagename=MSABC

Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure
http://www.the3day.org/site/PageServer?pagename=register_2010

Avon Walk for Breast Cancer
http://www.avonwalk.org/

City of Hope Walk for Hope (Women's Cancers, Women's Cures)
http://nationalevents.cityofhope.org/site/PageNavigator/walk_landing

Purchase pink. When you see pink products supporting the fight against breast cancer, consider a purchase. Typically, companies who create these special products or labels make donations to help fund breast cancer research and treatment.

For a variety of tee shirts, gift items and other pink paraphernalia, visit:

The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month shop at http://www.nbcamproducts.com/nbcamproducts/

The Susan G. Komen official products shop at:
http://shopkomen.com/

Save the Ta-Tas
http://www.savethetatas.com/

Celebrating life today, protecting it tomorrow

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month is all about helping people to live longer, healthier lives. But one still needs to be prepared for the unexpected. The nature of terminal illness and accidents means it can happen to anyone at any time.

Term life insurance is one of the easiest, most affordable ways to protect your loved ones. And with Matrix Direct, you can save up to 70 percent! By shopping a range of highly rated carriers, our agents can find a policy ideally suited to your needs and budget.

If you are considering a policy or haven't reviewed your policy recently, why not make National Breast Cancer Awareness Month the time to take the next step? Our licensed, friendly agents will provide all of the information you need, with no pressure or sales hype. The consultation is free. To contact Matrix Direct, call 1-800-383-8986 or click here.

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