OCTOBER – BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

October is a beautiful autumn month, but above all, it is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to focus on supporting, spreading knowledge, and raising awareness about breast cancer. Personal stories from women who have been affected, as well as from families, friends, and loved ones impacted in different ways, provide insight and give words to the experience of the disease.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. The risk of developing it is influenced by several factors, from genetics and family history to lifestyle and hormonal factors. Fortunately, research has made significant progress—both in understanding the disease, reducing risks, and, most importantly, saving lives.

🌸 Genetic factors and lifestyle choices – influencing breast cancer risk


Having a close relative, particularly a mother or sister, diagnosed with breast cancer increases your own risk. This risk is especially pronounced if the relative was diagnosed before age 50. However, even though genetics play a role, the majority of breast cancer cases are not caused by inherited factors. Lifestyle choices, healthy habits, and regular screenings matter. Evidence shows that physical activity, a balanced diet, limited alcohol consumption, and regular mammograms can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer and aid in early detection.

🌸 Progress – early detection and treatment


Over the past decades, breast cancer research has transformed the landscape. Thanks to earlier detection, improved treatments, and increasingly personalized care, more women are surviving today than ever before.

Key advances include:


• Early detection: Regular mammograms and increased awareness lead to earlier diagnosis—when treatment has the highest chance of success.
• Surgical methods: Surgeries have become more precise and less invasive while remaining highly effective. Breast-conserving surgery is now standard in many cases, helping women preserve their body image and sense of self.
• Medical treatments: Combinations of radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy now deliver better results than ever. Treatments can be tailored to each woman’s unique condition.
• Hormonal treatments: For some women, therapies such as anti-estrogens can reduce the risk of recurrence. For others with higher breast cancer risk, hormonal treatments may not be recommended.
• Personalized care: Genetic testing and individualized treatment plans allow doctors to customize care and improve outcomes.

Thanks to these advances, most women diagnosed with breast cancer today can live long, active, and healthy lives. This demonstrates the power of research, awareness, and the support provided within healthcare.

🌸 For women advised against hormonal treatments


For some women, particularly those at higher risk for breast cancer or with prior health conditions, hormonal treatments may not be suitable. There are, however, other effective options to promote well-being and relieve menopausal symptoms.

Examples of recommendations:


• Nutrition: Supplements such as vitamin D, calcium, and B-vitamins can support energy, bone strength, and overall health.
• Physical activity: Regular exercise, including walking, strength training, or yoga, improves sleep, reduces stress, and strengthens both body and mind.
• Non-hormonal medications: Several well-documented medications can alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disturbances without affecting hormone levels.
• Relaxation and mindfulness: Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises help reduce stress, support emotional balance, and promote recovery.

🌸 VagiVital – clinically proven non-hormonal self-care products


VagiVital offers self-care products for women during and after menopause. The products contain few, carefully selected natural ingredients and are completely free from hormones and perfume. They are based on clinical evidence and are developed to prevent, relieve, and treat the various symptoms that can occur during menopause. Products are applied locally to the vagina or vulva for effective and gentle care.

With Love 🤍