How a 10 Year Drive To Put The Brakes On Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is now a treatable 85% problem. However, more than 212,000 women are still diagnosed with the disease each year. Since early diagnosis is an important key to effective treatment, doctors say that it is important for all women over the age of 18 to have a monthly Breast Self-Exam (BSE) test, two or three days after menstruation. In addition, women between the ages of 20 and 39 should undergo a clinical breast examination at least every three years and women aged 40 and over should undergo a mammogram every year. For the past 10 years, BMW North America has partnered with The Susan G.  Breast Cancer Foundation - the largest fund for breast cancer research funding in the United States - to help spread the message of early detection and help ensure breast cancer research it continues. The Ultimate Drive group program has raised millions to help fund the effort. The program, fully documented by BMW, includes two BMW-type aircraft with cross-country badges, stationed on the en route to host day events. People will be invited to test cars - free of charge from participants - to raise money for breast cancer research, education and testing programs. The car company donates $1 directly to the Susan. G Foundation for every mile driven, plus any other profits from the system. Once the entire drive is completed, each participant adds his or her name to this year’s Signature Vehicle, the BMW 3-Series. This year's goal is to raise more than $1 million, bringing the total 10 years of the program to more than $10 million. To help mark the 10th anniversary of the program, a 240-nation cross-country tour has been extended to include Alaska. People can test cars to help fight breast cancer. They can also: • Regularly do BSE, have clinical trials and mammograms • Stop smoking and pressure • Exercise more • Cut or reduce their consumption • Watch how they eat. Try to eat more olive oil, fruits, vegetables, grains, fresh fish and poultry. Limit alcohol consumption. The more alcohol you drink, the more likely you are to get breast cancer. A general recommendation - based on research on the impact of alcohol on breast cancer risk - is that you should limit your consumption of more than one drink per day, as small amounts increase the risk. Maintain a healthy weight. If your weight is healthy, work to maintain that weight. If you need to lose weight, ask your doctor about healthy strategies to achieve this. Reduce the amount of calories you eat each day and gradually increase the amount of exercise. Be physically active. Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, which helps prevent breast cancer. Most healthy adults should aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity each week, and strength training at least twice a week. Breast. Breastfeeding may play a role in preventing breast cancer. The longer you breastfeed, the greater the protective effect. Limit postmenopausal hormone treatment. Combined hormone therapy may increase the risk of breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy. You can manage your symptoms with non-hormonal treatment and medication. If you decide that the benefits of short-term hormone therapy outweigh the risks, use the lowest dose that works for you and keep your doctor aware of the length of time you are taking the hormones.