WELLNESS: Early detection is the best protection

pink ribbonHave you had your annual breast cancer screening?  Beginning at age 20, all women should begin monthly breast self-exams and should have a clinical breast exam every three years and then annually at age 40 and older.

Some individuals have a higher risk of developing breast cancer. For these women, the ideal screening routine is best determined with a healthcare provider.

Here are some healthy tips to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer, and other cancers as well:

— Maintain a healthy weight. Check a body mass index (BMI) chart to see how you’re doing.
— Exercise regularly, aiming for at least 30 min./day.
— Limit alcohol to one drink or less per day.
— Eat a healthy diet with whole grains, vegetables, fruit and smaller portions of meat.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to schedule your mammogram and to work on living a healthy lifestyle. For more information on breast health services available at Riverwood, go to http://www.breasthealthalliance.org/

Check out the online health assessment tool called Family Health Manager at www.riverwoodhealthcare.org  Family Health Manager is an interactive tool that offers you personalized health and wellness options. At no cost, anyone can learn their health score, connect to local resources and create goals in support of healthy living. You can also understand and track key numbers important for overall health. Family Health Manager provides actionable steps to maximize health in key areas such as well-being, activity, sleep, nutrition and pain management. To get started, go to https://health.riverwoodhealthcare.org/fhm

 

Looking for wellness information? Visit the wellness page on Riverwood’s website. This is a one-stop source of information on both Riverwood wellness resources, such as services and education, and Community wellness resources with info on classes, programs, recreational opportunities and more.