October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, making this month the perfect time to examine how you take care of your breasts. Breast cancer accounts for 30% of cancers diagnosed in women and is the most prevalent cancer in the world. In fact, 1 in 8 women in the United States will experience invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. Like many conditions, taking steps to prevent breast cancer can manage your risk factors and, if necessary, detect any issues early. Take control of your breast health with UCA Lingerie’s six tips for breast cancer prevention.

 

 

Join us in the fight against cancer this October

 

 

Be Aware of Your Food Choices

Though it is still being researched, many experts believe that diet accounts for 30% to 40% of cancers. Lower fat intake, focus on fresh produce, and try high-fiber foods for breast cancer prevention. The best foods contain phytochemicals, which protect cells from damage caused by carcinogens. Besides fresh fruits and vegetables, soy products like tofu, miso, and soy milk are great sources of low-fat protein loaded with health-promoting phytochemicals.

While focusing on healthy choices for your body, consider healthy choices for the environment as well. Go green with Lily’s recycled lace or Candice’s refreshing sky blue. Made from recycled materials and earth-friendly dyes, UCA Lingerie’s sustainable choices help to keep waterways clear, preventing potentially harmful chemicals from entering drinking water. 

 

 

Lily + Candice Recycled Lace

 

Stress Less

When stressed, it can be harder to make healthy choices, leading many people to lean into activities that can increase their cancer risk. If you find yourself more stressed than usual, especially if it impacts your mood, consider talking to your doctor about strategies for developing a stress management plan.

In addition to care from doctors and mental health professionals, making mood-boosting choices during the day can help alleviate stress. Alleviating stress can even mean choosing fun lingerie. UCA Lingerie’s new Zendaya set comes in a fun, optimistic pink with trendy cutouts to boost self-confidence. This pink perfectly matches the breast cancer ribbon, making it a great reminder to prioritize your breast health.

 

 

ZENDAYA Sexy Lace Underwired Bra in Pink

 

Choose Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a healthy choice for you and your baby. It boosts your baby’s immune system while lowering your risk of cancer. While pregnant or breastfeeding, a woman’s body sheds breast cells, including those that might have abnormalities that can lead to breast cancer. Beyond getting rid of potentially cancerous cells, breastfeeding balances your estrogen levels, which is important for lowering your risk of both breast and ovarian cancer.

While breastfeeding, keeping your breasts clean from infection-causing bacteria and wearing the right bras can prevent pain. UCA’s Gianna is a nursing bra that does it all. The wireless style and breathable elastane are a comfortable choice that won’t pinch milk-filled breasts, while the one-handed buckle makes breastfeeding hassle-free.

Remember Regular Screenings

Regular screenings and frequent self-tests are the best way to detect cancer early. Women should see their doctor for a screening every two years or annually if they are over 35. Breast cancer screenings can detect nearly 90% of all cancer cases, especially if the cancer has caused a lump. If breast cancer is caught while localized, the survival rate shoots up to 99%.

Between visits, doing a monthly self-exam can help you get used to the look and feel of your breasts. While a self-exam will never replace regular testing, getting familiar with your breasts can help you identify abnormalities early.

 

 

ZENDAYA Sexy Lace Underwired Bra in Pink

 

Check Product Labels

Many health and beauty products contain compounds that may be potentially hazardous to your body, increasing your risk of many cancers. This especially includes cosmetics and sunscreen. While checking out the labels on your favorite products, look for options that don’t contain parabens or phthalates. Both ingredients can disrupt the balance of hormones in your body, allowing cancers to develop more quickly.

Beyond cosmetics, managing your contact with carcinogens in everyday life is important. According to current research, this may include making sustainable, reusable choices for dinnerware, food storage, and water bottles instead of opting for potentially harmful plastics. It is also advisable to filter any potentially harmful chemicals from water before drinking it.

Move Your Body

Being active and managing your weight are two of the best ways to keep your hormones in check, reduce stress, and boost your immune system. Women who get regular exercise typically reduce their risk of breast cancer by around 20%. Even just 20 minutes of movement a day can have substantial health benefits.

 

While working out, prioritize your health and safety by choosing a sports bra with the proper support. Molded sports bras with high support like Faith are great for all types of exercise, from yoga to running to weightlifting. Faith has a racerback style for back support and relief from chest pressure. For lower-impact workouts, wireless styles like Lisa and Hailey offer style and support.

 

LISA Sexy Recycled Lace Wireless Black Bra

 

At UCA Lingerie, we take women’s health seriously. With recycled, skin-friendly fabrics, our lingerie is designed to work with your body and keep you comfortable. Use these six tips and a perfectly fitted bra to make this Breast Cancer Awareness Month one where you prioritize your breast health and start being proactive about cancer prevention. Shop our collection today and find the perfect pieces to support you on your journey.