Wherever you are, whether an office, classroom or social event, count the number of women in the room – and one in eight will have breast cancer in their lifetime.  If you don’t know anyone who has had breast cancer, the statistic may not mean so much, but it should.  Although it is linked to genetics, like any disease it does not know the boundaries of a genetic line.  It could be you, or someone close.

The great news is that there are things you can actively do to limit your chances of breast cancer.  This month is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so it is a great time to learn more and take steps to reduce your risk.  Following are some key things you can do, according to the American Cancer Society:

• Catch it before it catches you.  Do monthly self exams.  Get annual mammograms.  This is especially important for women over 40.  For women in their 20s and 30s, clinical breast exams should be done at least every 3 years.
• Eat right.  Eat a healthy diet, and try to control your weight.  Obesity raises breast cancer risk.
• Get up and Move.  Regular exercise, at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, helps reduce the risk.
• Talk to you doctor.  Perhaps most important, be sure to talk to your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts or have any other concerns.  Err on the side of caution.

Also, don’t forget to support those that support breast cancer research, education and prevention.  For example, at REI this weekend I grabbed a pair of my favorite Smartwool cycling socks, and Smartwool is giving 2% of its sales to breast cancer research.  Thanks Smartwool!

If any of you have any stories to share, or companies you know that supporting breast cancer research, be sure to let us know.