Beyond Care for Your Black Hair

 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and a fitting time to pay your respects to those who have lost their lives in the battle with breast cancer; but also a time to learn, discuss and support breast cancer and its research.

As a large online retailer of hair extensions, wigs and other accessories, Elevate Styles wants all our customers to be aware of the dangers of breast cancer, and its high occurrence in the African American community. By knowing the facts and the risks, you can help ensure “care beyond your black hair” and prolong your life by decreasing your risk for developing breast cancer.

Breast Cancer Basics

Most women who discover that they have breast cancer only learn so after having a mammogram. Performing self breast exams can also aid in checking for lumps in your breast that could be attributed to cancer. Finding a lump in your breast does not necessarily mean you have cancer. There are other medical conditions that can cause them. It is best to seek the advice of a physician, should you find one.

Below are a few of the most common signs and symptoms of breast cancer. This list is not all-inclusive and not everyone experiences these symptoms. Some people may have no symptoms at all.

1. A lump in the breast

2. Redness, irritation or swelling of the breast

3. Pain in or around the breast

4. Discharge from the breast or nipple

5. Abnormal changes in the shape or size of the breast

Prevention is Key

(Image Source: http://pinkanddrink.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Girls_breast_cancer.jpg)

The best way to combat breast cancer is by employing methods that lower your risk and aid in early detection. You can do this by knowing the signs of breast cancer, visiting with your doctor regularly and getting annual mammograms.

Statistically, breast cancer is the 2nd most common cause of death in African-American women. (Lung cancer is number one.) Premenopausal women are at a higher risk and the death rate among African-American women with breast cancer is 41% higher than that of white women.

What You Can Do

The American Cancer Society, as well as various agencies that support Race for the Cure suggests that lifestyle changes can positively impact your changes of developing breast cancer.

It’s important to know your risk factors, family history of cancer and to implement changes in diet and exercise that can mean the difference between life and death.

Many of the foods you eat to grow healthy, beautiful hair, also lend to keeping your entire body healthy. Here are some tips on healthy lifestyle choices:

1. Get active and stay active.

2. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables

3. Eat plenty of whole grains

4. Ensure you are getting enough calcium and folate

5. Limit your alcohol intake

6. Stop smoking

7. Maintain a positive outlook

Equal Band Synthetic Full Cap Wig Luxury Girl - $ 19.88

Equal Band Synthetic Full Cap Wig Sweet Girl - $ 19.88

If you suffer from, or know someone that suffers from the effects of chemotherapy due to cancer, Elevate Styles offers full cap wigs that can make a difference in the lives of cancer patients. A wig can help boost self esteem, instill confidence and keep their motivation high.

Elevate Styles believes that it is our social responsibility to do our part in the fight against breast cancer by helping spread awareness.

Get screened, tell a friend, reach for the pink – help make a stand against breast cancer and towards finding a cure!

If you like this blog, please Plus it, Like it, Tweet it, or best yet, link to it.