Summer Time Fun Time

 

 

 

We as parents dread that month that creeps up on us faster then we hope. We can't help that it comes around- JUNE! Though it brings great beach weather, traveling adventures and summer time fun for some families, those who have to work have to find things to keep their family occupied. 1stClassLadies are MOTHERS FIRST and know all too well how important it is to keep our little ones busy because if you don't the television and video games will become their best friend and we don't need that. Here are a few ideas to think about when trying to make this summer not only fun for them but convenient and safe for you.

To send to camp or not to send to camp; that is the question. Camp is a lot of parents first choice when it comes to keeping their mini ones busy for the summer. Its filled with activities, meals, safe staff and a friendly environment where children are usually surrounded by other children they know. The problem for most is camp is expensive. 85% of the people 1stClassLadies spoke with stated that camp is not an affordable option for them. So what do you do when you would like your child to have a camp option and not struggle to get it? For starters do your research! There are always free or low income camps available. Camps that go according to what you make and will not try to take you for everything you are worth. Start your search early. Do not wait until May to decide now is the time to plan your child's summer. Beginning of Spring seems to be when the summer plan should begin as that is when summer camp posting start to become available. You can also sign up to get alerts for when things become open to apply without missing out. If the more expensive camps is something you really want to invest in look into camps that offer payment plans so you do not have to provide all the money at once. If it is a camp that does not have that option start setting aside funds a little at a time to save up so it doesn't seem as though your pockets are really suffering.

Create their own camp. You can place your child in different activities for the summer which will keep them busy just like a camp but a different more independent setting. For example, on two days out the week provide two sports/activities for them to do and then  on another two other days provide two different sports/activities. Let one of the days be for them to do something of their own choice so they feel like they have some say in what their summer will be like. Just like camp there are free or  affordable options available in all communities. From swim lessons to basketball, ranging from your youngest child to your oldest. There is something for everyone girl or boy- no one is left behind.  Make sure to find family time within those other two days. Though our job is what pays the bills you HAVE to make time for the ones in it. The last thing you want is for them to drift too far away to the point that you have no idea what is going on in their life.
 

Summer time doesn't stop the educational flow. Within all that fun make sure that they find time to keep the brain wheels running. Set time aside for education especially the younger ones as their mind does not retain information as well as older children if it is not reiterated to them on a constant basis. School work doesn't have to be boring and does not have drag. You can spice it up by utilizing flash cards and make it a matching game for either one on one or a family game. With the newer technology we are fortunate to have today, there are computer and game systems that offer educational activities for the young. Setting a schedule rather then just springing work on them helps them to keep balance and not be upset when it is time to get down to school business. They know what time of the day or which days they have to refresh their minds so it comes as no shock when you tell them pull out their books. Within refreshing what they already know, include things they will learn in the upcoming school year so that they are a bit more ahead of the game and know what to expect when working into the classroom come September. A child is only as prepared as a parent makes them. Though it is the teacher's job to teach, it is your job as the parent to make sure what they learn is heard, understood and retained.

 

A little relaxation never hurt. You want to keep you babies busy and out of trouble but there is nothing wrong with letting them relax a bit. It is ok to allow them to have a lazy day. One day every now in again to just sit around and do nothing hurts anyone if anything it helps. Just like you through all the working, errands and running around you need a moment and so do they.

 

Safety measures is a must. No matter what you decide to allow them to get into this summer , make sure they are safe and so is there environment. Provide sun block if heading into the sun as the younger the child, the worse the sun is for them. Also provide them with shades and a hat to keep them away from high UV rays. For younger children that are going to be away from you on outing with camps or groups provide them with information if they God forbid get separated from the group. They should know their full name, a contact number and even their address. Children that are too young to retain that information should have it in their bags or on their persons. Older children probably have a phone and should without a doubt KNOW the basic information. When out with family make sure wherever you go there is a meet up spot if separated, set rules into play (i.e. no running by the pool, if you are allowing them to stay home don't let anyone in, etc.) and make sure to have fun!

 

CAMERA PIC

This topic came to mind as I sat home one day watching the new day time television talk show "The Real"  During this particular episode one of the hosts (happens to be my favorite) Adrienne Bailone did a little segment where she gave watchers a "How To" on camera pictures!

Since the social media take over with pictures and video, people are using Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to post their best footage.  If its not pictures of the vacation they're taking its the food they're eating, the party they're attending, the store they're shopping in.  So forth and so forth, I'm sure you get the point.

Well, what are we here to talk about with this subject matter??  Some tips on how to make your pictures look the BEST OF COURSE!

THE SELFIE



Ms Tae Heckard
infamous for her "Selfie" poses and
she does a FAB job!!!

Picture courtesy of APlateofthisACupofthat
Jenn IG @shes0fly

This is the hot picture that is going to be the DIY (Do It Yourself).  Its the perfect picture of all because you are your own photographer, you cant go wrong and no one is to blame but yourself.  Which is why this cant fail!  These pictures are usually a close up shot of you so ladies and gents please make sure everything is on point!  For the ladies especially if your wearing make up make sure that face is beat to perfection and hair is laced!  For the ladies who want to do the natural selfie we encourage this also, after all we are all born with the skin we are in!  Directions for this type of picture is to hold camera phone in either hand.  You cam either do the two hand extension of the arms where both hands are holding the camera phone up in the air looking down on you.  You can also do the one hand hold where either hand holds the camera phone and pose using your best facial expressions whether sexy, comical, serious, etc!

SCENERY SHOTS



Picture taken my Trina "Soho"

Are you vacationing in Italy, at the Statue of Liberty, on the beach in Turk and Cacos, and want the all of your followers to know??  This is the shot you want to take!  These types of pictures show the scenery you are around.  It could be a picture of the trees, skyline, sunrise, high rise buildings, cabanas, etc.  These pictures are suppose to show much details of your surroundings and make your followers wish they are where you are.  So next time your someplace beautiful, start snapping away!

Picture courtesy of Kim Kardashian for IG!

MIRROR MIRROR ON THE WALL

Picture courtesy of Emily B from her IG, perfect mirror
picture demonstration!

This is one of my favorites when it comes to social media.  This type of photograph can work in two benefits.  Number one, it helps you to take a picture of an ensemble you are wearing without someone having to take the pic for you.  Secondly it helps you to catch the best double image of yourself.  You can capture yourself taking a picture of yourself, front view, what we like to call the "BBM POSE" (credit to Fabolous).  You can also capture a front and back view all at the same damn time! GENIUS!!

WHATS TO EAT?



This picture in particular comes from the rapper
2 Chainz himself.  For those who follow him, you must have the
same questions I do as to; Who is the chef?
Pic courtesy of IG: hairweavekiller

For many Foodies like myself and those who just plain like to eat and show off, this is the right picture for you!  This is the most simple picture because its only a snap shot of your dish or even what you might be sipping on!  The only advice with this type of shot is your angles and your phone camera amenities.  If taking a picture of a dish make sure to do an over head shot to assure the viewers can see the entire dish. Please don't eat a bite and then snap shot, be sure to take the picture first and then proceed to devour *smile*.  Make sure your lighting is good and no blurriness.  You want people to want what your eating not get sick. LOL.

THE "IT" ITEM

Picture courtesy of R&B singer Ciara.
Prime example of showcasing the "it" item!



This picture is courtesy of the beautiful Emily B, on IG,
showing off her mean shoe game and Hunny, you
have every right!

These types of postings are usually showcasing some sort of item that you want to show off to the world.  Usually clothing, shoes or sneakers, jewlery, cars, etc.  Not much is needed to be done in the practice of taking these sorts of shots but in order to stand out from the rest make sure to place the item in great scenery, lighting, and or place setting to make it pop out in the picture!


                                                                          
All in all social media is setting the platform for some very entertaining, desirable photographs that will give your viewers a little ensight to your exciting life.  Some choose not to partake in social media, I personally see it as an individuals journal, scrapbook, advertisement, etc.  It can be used for anything and everything but most importantly you want to make your pictures are worth every click of the LIKE button!

Have any other helpful advice of snap shots??

Feel free to comment on this posting and share your tips!

  



BEST & WORSE OF 2012

 "IT'S LIKE THEY SAY.....YOU CANT HAVE THE GOOD WITHOUT THE BAD"

As we end this year 2012, we've come across some good times and some bad.  We'd like to recap the BEST & WORSE of this year, hoping for all the best next year!!

One thing that has to be the biggest moment of 2012 is the re election of our president Barack Obama.  Though highly criticized throughout his past four years served, it is not doubt that many wanted Obama to be reelected.  Over the years many have promoted the importance of not only the youth but all eligible to get out to the polls and vote.  This year more than ever we the people exercised that every right that our ancestors fought,  and suffered to make possible for us in this day and age.  Because of this coming together as one for a  cause we were able to see "our president" take the stand for another four years!

Since 1968 New York has visited one venue in particular for all the hottest concerts, games, and any big event taken place for New Yorkers to see.  That was up until Sept 21, 2012 when Brooklyn opened the Barclays Center.  The official home now to the New Jersey Nets, and come 2015 the official home of the NHL New York Islanders.  Though opening at a later date than the first predicted date due to lack of finances and also tenant protests, the Barclays Center did bring a positive outlook to the city employment wise!


The Olympics is always a big deal within 
itself.  With so many individuals playin different sports representing their country 
proud fully.  This years Olympics proved to make 
all time history and her name is Gabrielle Christina Victoria "Gabby" Douglas.  Born on Dec 31, 1995 she made history this summer as the first African American gymnast in Olympic history to 
become the individual all around champion and the first American gymnast to win gold in both the individual all around and team competitions at the same 
Olympics!!

 

 

 

 

On July 20, 2012 at a few minutes after 12 "The Dark Night Rises" started to play at the Century 16 Movie Theaters at the Aurora Town Center. A few minutes into the movie 24-year-old James Holmes walked into a theater that he  had an exit he propped open to come back in after leaving the movie theater just minutes prior. He then opened fire creating a uproar of terror that will take some people years to recover from. In total Holmes killed 12 people and wounded 58. When questioned by authorities Holmes replied that he was " The Joker" showing no emotions in regards to those he murdered. Lead actor Christian Bale was in Europe promoting the new Batman film during the time of the shooting. He found time however to dropped in to the Medical Centre of Aurora with his wife Sibi Blazic, spending two-and-a-half hours talking to victims as well as doctors and paramedics involved in the rescue effort.

Let's us not forget all the senseless shooting that took place for the year of 2012. So many lives cut short for nothing. One senseless shooting that stood out and had the hold nation wearing hoodies is the fatal shooting of young Trayvon Martin. Trayvon Martin was just 16 years old on February 26, 2012, in Sanford, Florida. Martin, an unarmed 17-year-old African American boy was shoot by George Zimmerman, a 28-year-old multi-racial Hispanic American that was the appointed neighborhood watch coordinator for the gated community in which Martin was temporarily staying and where the shooting took place. The watch men was not charged in the beginning causing many to feel like justice was not being served. Though Zimmerman stated it was in self defense, the fact that Maetin was an unarmed kid caused many to find the story false. In October 2012, Judge Debra S. Nelson set Zimmerman's trial date for June 10, 2013.She also ruled that any "stand your ground" hearing must be held by April 26, 2013. Let's hope justice is truly served in the new year.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of course we could not talk about tragedy without speaking on the terrible hurricane Sandy that hit NYC. It not only crippled the big city and left many homeless but also took the lives of many innocent people. There are still so many without a place to call home going into the new year. Some were without power for weeks and there are even buisnesses that have suffered as well. These people however are not alone as many have stepped in to help anyway they can. From can drives in school, to the big 12.12.12 concert being held at Madison Square Garden to raise money in efforts to help those who have suffers at the hands of sandy. Those who were suppose to run the marathon the week after Sandy decided to still run- run to help those in Staten Island who needed the helping hand. Our prayer go out to those who have been affected not only by this tragedy but ANY 2012 tragedy. Keep your head up, stay strong, and we are praying for you. 

Holiday safety

Tis the season..... For theives and robbers!!

Yes my friends they are out there in full effect as you shop for your loved ones with your hard earned money. Lurking in the corner watching you as you wonder into different stores collecting gifts unaware of the dangers that may lye ahead. 1stClassLadies want our supporters to be happy AND safe this holiday season so we have put together some tips to help you shop safe, secure, and alert! Grab your pen and paper or make a mental note of this seasons do's and don'ts for holiday shopping.

Leave the house with only what you need. Your already going to rack up with bags and thing so don't carry along the unnecessary stuff. Over size purses, bags and big entertainment object ( such as iPads, games, etc.) are just another item to have to keep tabs on. Eliminate the stress and take with you what you need to shop that is it.

Pockets are a plus. Your coat should have inside pockets because that is the best place to store your funds. Money can fall out of pockets and cards can be easily stolen if not safely secured so keeping it inside your clothing close to you keeps it from going anywhere. If your funds are in an inside pocket you have no need for a purse so you can leave it at home.

Prepaid/debit/credit cards work. Walking around with to much money can be a hassle and draw unwanted attention to yourself. Place the money you want to spend on a prepaid or debit card to limit walking around with to much loose money on yourself. Remember to write "check ID " on the back of all your cards to avoid someone else utilizing it.

Be mindful of your surrounding. As we said there are people in all types of places looking for someone to make their victim. Looking for someone who seems to be oblivious to their shopping environment. Be aware of those around you and trust your gut. If you feel like your being followed stop what your doing and survey the scene. Look out for people you seem to be observing in every store your in and. Ever seem to far away from you. Don't be afraid to stop a officer or security guard and ask for help. Even if it's just pretending to ask for directions. This will make him/her or them think twice about making you there prey.

Have a shopping buddy. No not just to help you pick out great gifts but for security. People who shop in groups are less likely to be the victim of a thief. Robbers and thieves usually go for loners so takes someone along with you. Make sure to utilize those extra set of eyes. BOTH should be watching for unwanted attention. If its possible to leave young children at home DO SO! Predators like to focus on those with children as well. They know that nothing means more to a parent then the safety of a child and they will give up whatever it is they need to in order to keep their little loved one safe.

When all seems to much there is always the internet. Nothing is wrong with shopping from home and more people are finding it easier. Even though for most it is more convenient, you still have to be careful. Shopping from a PayPal is VERY safe because you do not have to keep putting in all your personal information to different sites decreasing the chances of your information being stolen. Only shop off known sites and if it seems to good to be true - chances are it is!

                         Follow this guideline and you as well as all your gifts will be safe!

Be safe. Be Prepared

Be safe. Be prepared. It's just that simple- 1stClassLadies
 

In light of the terrible Sandy hurricane that hit the New York Area we here at aplateofthisacupofthat would like to say we hope that our readers  as well as their families are doing okay. Our hearts and prayers go out to those that have been affected by this tragedy and we will continue to keep you in our thoughts as the city continues to recover. With that in mind 1stClassLadies thought it was important to help our readers be prepared in case we were ever in a situation such as Sandy again. We have put together a few guides in order to help be safe and be prepared.
 
Have the proper material. Have flashlights. batteries, candles and all the properties needed in order to keep your home a float in case of power outage. This is a kit that should ALWAYS be accessible to you and not just in the case of a natural disaster.
 
Easy eating. Prep your home with food that doesn't require being heated up with the help of electricity.  Stock up on dry and canned foods that can be made with water or minimum heat. Foods such as  canned beans, canned soups, stews, dry as well as canned milk, canned fruits, vegetables and granola bars are all good examples of what you can get. Also make sure to have plenty of water available depending on the family size.
 
Clear the floor. Anything that you have laying on the floor or in the basement that can be damaged by water should be removed. Pictures, papers, electronics, things that you know are expensive financially and emotionally. You always hear people say they lost so much but the things they lost that hurt the most are the things they can not get back. Try stacking things high and out the way to avoid these loses as much as possible.
 
Investments are a good thing. Small gasoline- powered generators, solar cookers, a portable phone charger and a good first aid kit are all things a family should invest in and would definitely come in handy in the case of another Sandy. They may not be used often but when the power goes out you will be sure to have had these things.
 
Think about your vehicle. Avoid parking by tress and wires that can fall on your vehicles. this is a tough one but it can be done. If parking lots are available to you utilize them. Remove anything in your car that has any meaning to you in the case your ( God forbid) is flooded.
 

If your told to evacuate DO IT. Your safety and that of your loved ones is MOST important. Understand no one would tell you to leave your home if they didn't feel is was a necessary precaution. PLEASE we ask you to do so if instructed to. No life is worth being lost because we felt it's not going to be as big as they say. Let's not chance our lives like that.
 

We would like to say that even though the City was parallized for a bit, this storm was well prepared for and well organized from the beginning to end. Organized aftermath is what this city needed. Though alot do not view it that way know and understand no one could ever be 100% ready and prepared. And this city was as prepared as they could be. We would like to thank all of those who put their lives on the line during this hurricane to save someone else. Your hard work and dedication to this city has not gone unnoticed. Thank you to the volunteers and shelters that have went the extra mile to help those who have lost so much.
 
If you or someone you know who like to help those affected by hurricane Sandy:

Donate RedCross
 
United Way

Save The Children

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

NOVEMBER IS PANCREATIC CANCER AWARENESS

"Pain is temporary, Quitting is forever"

-Lance Armstrong

 

 

 

 

The month of November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness!  The American Cancer Society reports, in the United States as of 2012, there is about 43, 920 new cases of pancreatic cancer and about 37, 390 deaths from pancreatic cancer.  The risk is about 1 in 71!!  In light of this awareness here are some facts on this form of cancer, events to promote awareness, and also organiztions for donations.

THE FACTS

 

Pancreatic cancer is one of the few cancers for which survival has not improved substantially over nearly 40 years.

Pancreatic cancer is the 4th leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.

Pancreatic cancer has the highest mortality rate of all major cancers. 94% of pancreatic cancer patients will die within five years of diagnosis – only 6% will survive more than five years. 74% of patients die within the first year of diagnosis.

The average life expectancy after diagnosis with metastatic disease is just three to six months.

Few risk factors for developing pancreatic cancer are defined. Family history of the disease, smoking, age, and diabetes are risk factors.

Pancreatic cancer may cause only vague symptoms that could indicate many different conditions within the abdomen or gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms include pain (usually abdominal or back pain), weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), loss of appetite, nausea, changes in stool, and diabetes.

Symptoms include pain (usually abdominal or back pain), weight loss, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), loss of appetite, nausea, changes in stool, and diabetes.

Treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited. Surgical removal of the tumor is possible in less than 20% of patients diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Chemotherapy or chemotherapy together with radiation is typically offered to patients whose tumors cannot be removed surgically. Only three drugs are FDA‐approved for the treatment of pancreatic cancer: fluorouracil (5‐FU), gemcitabine (Gemzar®), and erlotinib (Tarceva®).

Pancreatic cancer is a leading cause of cancer death largely because there are no detection tools to diagnose the disease in its early stages when surgical removal of the tumor is still possible.

ORGANIZATIONS FOR DONATIONS

 

American Cancer Society

DONATE HERE

 

 

PANCAN

DONATE HERE

 

 

Halloween Safety

I don't know that there are real ghosts and goblins, but there are always more trick-or-treaters than neighborhood kids. ~Robert Brault

Time for the spooky customs and tasty treats. The darling princesses and the action packed hero's. Halloween is here and though it's great to have fun with the goons and goblin's 1stClassLadies are also parents and know the dangers as well as concerns affiliated with the scary day. Let us give you some safety tips for you and your loved ones this Halloween. This way they can enjoy themselves and you can feel comfort in letting them.

Have A Time & Plan Then Stick To It. Before even leaving the house know all the answers to any questions there may be. Where are you trick or treating, what time you will leave and return, if someone gets lost is there a meet up location. All important questions that EVERYONE traveling should know just in case.

Travel In Groups. It's alway a good idea to trick or treat in groups rather then solo because it is less of a chance one will get lost, be afraid or even worse kidnapped. Travel in groups of about five or six (bigger groups tend to have to more head count to make sure everyone is with them) and have a buddy system. It sounds old school but it is very efficient in the new school world. Never wonder off from the group alone and if you have to stop for whatever reason let the group know and your buddy should attend wherever your going with you ( don't worry this doesn't mean they have to hold your hand in the bathroom if that's your destination!)

Pick A Safe Location For Trick Or Treating. Lets faces as parents there are just some places we will not take our children in broad daylight! Some areas are just not safe and no matter how old they get we want to protect them. This Halloween make sure to pick a location that is safe when heading out for goodies with the kiddies.You will feel more at ease and less likely to want to cut trick or treating short which will make the little ones VERY happy.

Check All Candy Before Letting The Kids Eat It. It is very important to check all candy before letting the children dig in. If its open or looks like its been tampered with DON'T LET THEM HAVE IT!! If your trick or treating in areas your not familiar with be extra careful. If its candy with writing you don't understand through it away. Your child could be allergic to an ingredient in it and you won't know until its to late and he/she has a bad reaction.

Custom Originality. When picking a custom be sure not to have the same costume as to many other children. this will cause confusion when trying to keep an eye on your own. Depending on the age children should NOT wear mask if too many have the same costume. its not only a confusion problem its also a safety hazard as some young kids can hurt themselves.You want to always be able to pick your offspring out the crowd no matter how big or small.

Dress Right. Though you are suppose to wear a custom dress right! if it's cold ( as it should be since it is fall) cloths and jackets are a necessity. You don't want them to be sick because of one day! little ones should avoid too many snaps and zips as this may make it difficult when its time to use the bathroom. This rule should also apply to their costume. The younger the child the less difficult the costume should be.

Driving Safety. If driving remember to drive alittle slower as you will have people in the streets. keep your lights on so those walking are sure to see you.

Follow this guide and 1stClassLadies are sure you and yiur mini me's will be sure to enjoy this Halloween!!

Plan B in Schools??

When is considered overstepping the boundaries? JennLo 1CL

Plan B In Schools?

1stClassLadies in a previous post informed our readers that a school was planning to distribute condoms at prom. This sparked a lot of opinions and caused a lot of talk both negative and positive. It was later decided that handing out condoms( though it was designed to promote safe sex) was not going to happen. If that wasn't enough uproar it has come to the public attention that 13 NYC high schools are offering the Plan B pill (also known as the morning after pill) to high school girls if they need it.

This was considered a pilot program starting back in January 2011. It offers girls as young as 14yrs old permission to receive the plan B pill from their school nurse up to 72hrs after having unprotected sex. The process would go as follows:

• Walk into the school nurse office and request the pill
• The female would then be given a pregnancy test
• If the result come back as negative she would then be given the plan B pill

According to the Department of health 7,000 girls get pregnant every year and of them more then half get an abortion and 90% of them are unplanned.

With every good intention idea there will be backlash. For some this is just promoting unsafe sex. Yes kids have unprotected sex in some cases anyways but some may view this as a reason to be LESS careful and/or more willing to have a "slip-up" every now and again. This is because they know plan B will be available to them. It is an unfortunate truth that babies are having babies however is this how we want to prevent it? Are we teaching them to live up to their responsibilities as they become young adults?

Understand parents DO have a say in the matter and if you would NOT like your child to participate in the program you can sign a statement saying so. If a parent does NOT sign the form the school can and will administer the pill without their permission. This is why it is very important to be involved in your young child's life. Let them know its okay to talk to you and make sure they understand that whatever the case is they can come to you and it will be handled accordingly. These are the facts people!! If you have a teen girl in high school be sure to check and see if her school offers the pill and then take the steps you need to feel comfortable.

In October.....We Wear Pink

 

"Breast cancer is not just a disease that strikes at women. It strikes at the very heart of who we are as women: how others perceive us, how we perceive ourselves, how we live, work and raise our families-or whether we do these things at all."

-Debbie Schultz

In October.....We Wear Pink

 

When most think of pink we think of girly little five year olds playing dress up.  We even see the guys embracing the popular color, and with style.  This October 1stclassladies think of the color pink as much more than the usual sweet glitz and glam.  We walk with stride for a much stronger and powerful pink.  This month represents BREAST CANCER AWARENESS!!! 

 

 

IF ONLY WOMEN PAID AS MUCH ATTENTION TO THEIR BREAST AS MEN!!

 

Sad to say but it is true.  A lot of women dont know the stats of this disease. If we educate ourselves more we can pick up on the signs and get the proper help thats necessary.  Below weve listed the stats and also a guide of detecting it early on.

 

STATS

 

 

 

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women, except for lung cancers. About 1 in 8 (12%) women in the US will develop invasive breast cancer.  American Cancers Society most recent estimates for breast cancer in the United States are for 2012:

• About 226,870 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women. 

• About 63,300 new cases of carcinoma in situ (CIS) will be diagnosed (CIS is non-invasive and is the earliest form of breast cancer).

• About 39,510 women will die from breast cancer

After increasing for more than 2 decades, female breast cancer incidence rates began decreasing in 2000, then dropping by about 7% from 2002 to 2003.  Incidence rates have been stable since 2004.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer.  These decreases are believed to be the result of earlier detection through screening and increased awareness, as well as improved treatment.

At this time there are more than 2.9 million breast cancer survivors in the United States. (This includes women still being treated and those who have completed treatment.)

 

EARLY DETECTION

 

 

 

Women age 40 and older should have a screening mammogram every year and should continue to do so for as long as they are in good health.

• Current evidence supporting mammograms is even stronger than in the past. In particular, recent evidence has confirmed that mammograms offer substantial benefit for women in their 40s.  A mammogram will miss some cancers, and it sometimes leads to follow up of findings that are not cancer, including biopsies.

• Mammograms for older women should be based on the individual, her health, and other serious illnesses, such as congestive heart failure, end-stage renal disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and moderate-to-severe dementia. Age alone should not be the reason to stop having regular mammograms.

Women in their 20s and 30s should have a clinical breast exam (CBE) as part of a periodic (regular) health exam by a health professional, at least every 3 years. After age 40, women should have a breast exam by a health professional every year.

• CBE is a complement to mammograms and an opportunity for women and their doctor or nurse to discuss changes in their breasts, early detection testing, and factors in the woman's history that might make her more likely to have breast cancer.

FOR MORE INFO VISIT

 

http://www.cancer.org/Healthy/MoreWaysACSHelpsYouStayWell/breastcancer?gclid=CJCKmcuX7bICFVGd4Aodf0gA0Q