Dr. Eric P. Winer Stresses Importance of Breast Health Awareness

July 16, 2008 - Dr. Eric P. Winer, Chief Scientific Advisor at Susan G. Komen for the Cure ®, stresses that it is important for women to be aware of the normal look and feel of their breasts, further advising them to report any changes to their doctors. Breast health awareness remains critical, since we know that early detection of breast cancer greatly improves a woman's odds of beating the disease.

Women should understand their personal risks of the disease and the benefits of lifestyle choices in terms of reducing the risk of breast cancer. Women can decrease their risk of developing breast cancer by avoiding excessive weight gain, limiting alcohol consumption and getting regular exercise. Routine mammography for women age 40 and over has also been shown to improve breast cancer survival.

Breast cancer remains a common problem, but with a combination of early detection and effective treatment, the vast majority of women will go on to lead a long and healthy life.