Small changes, big difference

When thinking about how to reduce your risk of breast cancer, you don't need to consider making huge, sweeping changes to your lifestyle. A few small adjustments to your habits can be enough to make a big difference:

Did you know? Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced eating and regular exercise can reduce breast cancer risk. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fibre can help reduce your risk of breast cancer.

Did you know? Regular physical activity can lower the risk of breast cancer by 10-20%. Aim for at least 30 minutes a day.

Did you know? Alcohol consumption is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Limit your intake to reduce your risk. Smoking is also linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Quitting today could protect your health in the future.

Did you know? Breastfeeding has been shown to lower the risk of developing breast cancer, especially when done for a total of one year or more. It can be protective for both mother and child.

Did you know? Performing breast self-exams only takes a few minutes each month. Set a reminder, stay proactive, and know your body! Women who perform monthly breast self-exams are more likely to detect breast cancer early, leading to more treatment options.

Empowerment and awareness through underwear

Every year, National Bra Day is celebrated on October 18th to raise awareness about breast health, support breast cancer survivors, and celebrate the importance of proper fitting bras. This day encourages women to not only appreciate the significance of comfortable and supportive lingerie but also to stay informed about breast health, regular screenings, and self-care.

While Pink October is widely known for promoting breast cancer awareness, it’s also an opportunity to think about how we support our breasts daily, in a very literal sense. Wearing the right bra can make a world of difference in terms of comfort, confidence, and even long-term health. 

A well-fitting bra doesn’t just enhance your appearance, it also contributes to your posture, prevents back pain, and reduces strain on your shoulders. This month is a great time to re-evaluate how you care for your breasts, from health check-ups to choosing the right bra.

Why National Bra Day Matters

Breast Cancer Awareness: National Bra Day is closely tied to breast cancer awareness, serving as a reminder for women to perform regular self-exams and schedule mammograms. Many survivors share their stories, while many lingerie brands use National Bra Day to launch collections specifically designed for post-surgery comfort and to donate proceeds to research foundations. Wearing a bra that fits well and offers the right support can make a huge difference, especially for women who've undergone surgery.

Promoting Confidence: A well-fitting bra is about more than just aesthetics - it’s about feeling good in your own skin. The right bra boosts not only your physical posture but also your mental outlook. National Bra Day is a time to recognize that confidence can start from the inside out. Wearing the correct bra size and style can make you feel empowered, whether you’re at work, at the gym, or out for a night. This day promotes body positivity by encouraging women to embrace their natural shape and find bras that complement and celebrate their bodies, rather than trying to fit into societal standards of beauty.

Education on Bra Fitting: Studies show that up to 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size, which can lead to discomfort, back pain, and even poor breast health. National Bra Day is a call to action for women to seek out proper bra fittings, ensuring their lingerie provides adequate support. Wearing a bra that fits well can prevent sagging, reduce shoulder and neck strain, and improve your overall posture. 

How to Participate

Get Fitted: Many lingerie stores offer free bra-fitting services on National Bra Day, along with discounts to encourage women to invest in high-quality bras. Take advantage of this day to upgrade your lingerie drawer and get fitted by a professional to make sure you're getting the support you need.

Donate to a Cause: Many organizations and lingerie brands donate a portion of sales on National Bra Day to breast cancer charities so consider purchasing a bra that contributes to this cause.

Spread Awareness: Share information about breast health on social media, and encourage your friends and family to schedule regular check-ups.

National Bra Day is a time to focus on self-care, wellness, and support—both literally and figuratively!

How I'll Be Taking Part

And, for what it's worth, here's the cute little pink number that I'll be wearing today, which, while on the surface looks pretty plain and understated, ticks all the right boxes. 

Not only does it provide great support without being intrusive towards whatever I want to wear over the top of it, but I reckon it also does a rather nice job of flattering my boobs by providing a full but natural shape to them.

Stand together with survivors

No Bra Day is about showing solidarity with breast cancer survivors, especially those who have undergone mastectomies, and raising awareness about early detection. Let’s stand together, support those affected, and remind everyone to prioritize breast health through self-exams.

Know your enemy

Here we go with this week's summary of breast cancer facts that I've been sharing over on Twitter. Because the best way to combat something is to know what you are up against!

Did you know? Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. But men can get breast cancer too! Around 1% of all breast cancer cases are in men

Did you know? 85% of breast cancer cases occur in women with no family history of the disease

Did you know? Genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increase the risk of breast cancer. Men with a family history of breast cancer or BRCA gene mutations are especially at higher risk

Did you know? Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate by age. While it is more common in older women, it can also affect younger women. Women over 40 are advised to schedule annual mammograms.

Did you know? Mammograms can detect tumours up to 2 years before they can be felt and breast cancer deaths have dropped by more than 30% since they became widespread.

Reach out and make a difference

I know there is a lot going on at the moment to promote breast cancer awareness for Pink October, but just a quick reminder to not overlook or neglect other aspects of your health.

World Mental Health Day is the perfect opportunity to remember that it is just as important to look after your mind as it is your body. Physical health and mental health need to go hand in hand if you really want to look after yourself.

If you're struggling or finding life difficult, reach out to someone, talk about it and don't be ashamed to ask for help. It really is okay to admit that you are not okay. You do not need to face whatever you are going through alone! 

But please also remember that you are stronger than you probably realise. Hang in there and keep fighting. You got this!

Conversely, if you know someone is struggling, reach out to them. Even if its just a quick hello, it could mean the world to them. Small gestures can make big differences! A simple text, phone call, or casual conversation can have a big impact. Let them know you're there, ready to listen without judgment.

And, perhaps even more importantly, if you suspect someone is in a dark place but, for whatever reason, they either fell unable to talk about it or uncomfortable opening up, be the one to take the first step and reach out to them.

Even those who seem to be "okay" could be dealing with stress, anxiety, or depression behind the scenes. Mental health struggles can be isolating, and sometimes the hardest step for someone facing these challenges is reaching out for help. That’s where each and every one of us comes in. Be the one to make a difference!