It’s hard not to notice all the pink around us right now…from scarfs and umbrellas to NFL socks and neon pink shoes.  For many people who have been personally touched by cancer and specifically, breast cancer, these signs of support for the search for a cure are deeply meaningful.  Unfortunately, for others who haven’t been affected the pink has become overwhelming.  Are you aware that more women die of heart disease than all types of cancer combined?  For those who are at a high risk of breast cancer either through genetics (mothers, aunts and sisters who have had it) or through lifestyle (obesity, smoking, lack of exercise) getting mammograms, self exams and possibly CA-125 tests can be critical.

For the rest of us, after we’ve taken the basic preventive steps and tests, there is all the rest of our lifestyle and genetics to look at.  How many of us have had grandparents, parents and siblings with heart disease and are on statins to lower cholesterol?  I have it coming at me from both sides of my family.  Have you taken the first important step to have your cholesterol and blood pressure checked?  Do you try to eat healthy or have you given up because losing weight and taking a walk is just too hard?  If it matters to you, go ahead, wear pink.  But do it while you’re having a salad or going to the gym or out for a walk.  In the long run, this will save many more lives.

Written by www.labtestingnow.com