When it comes to our health, it’s easy to think about what we should do when something feels wrong.
But breast cancer awareness isn’t only about recognising symptoms. It’s also about understanding your risk, knowing your body, staying active and keeping up with recommended screening.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, making it a good opportunity to pause, learn more about breast cancer and think about the small things you can do today that may support a healthier tomorrow.
Breast cancer affects women and families across Europe every day. In 2022, around 374,800 women in the EU were diagnosed with breast cancer, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women. The estimated lifetime risk of developing breast cancer before the age of 75 is around 1 in 11 women. (Source: ECIS)
That’s why awareness matters. Knowing your body, staying active and keeping up with recommended screening can all be important parts of looking after your health.
There are some breast cancer risk factors we cannot change, such as age, family history and inherited genetic factors. But research also shows that some lifestyle factors can influence risk. Staying physically active, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting alcohol are among the things that can contribute to reducing breast cancer risk.
For women, taking care of your health can mean knowing your body, staying active, keeping up with recommended screenings and making time to look after yourself.
And when we do those things together, something even more powerful can happen. We can encourage the women around us to do the same.
Looking after your health doesn’t have to be complicated. It can start with understanding what is normal for your body and paying attention when something changes. It means knowing which health screenings are recommended for you and speaking with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
Screening can help with early detection. Breast screening uses mammograms to detect breast cancer before it can be felt or symptoms appear. Keeping up with recommended screening appointments is an important part of looking after your health. Recommendations vary by age and location, so follow your local guidance and speak with a healthcare professional if you have concerns.
Movement is another important part of looking after your overall health.
Research shows that regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer and can support a healthy weight. Strength training also helps maintain strength and mobility.
At Curves, our 30-minute, coach-supported workouts combine strength training and cardio, helping women make movement part of their routine while taking time for themselves.
At Curves, strength is about more than what you can lift. It’s about confidence, resilience and feeling capable in your everyday life. It’s also about having a community around you that encourages you to make your health a priority.
There is no single way to prevent breast cancer, but everyday choices can make a difference. Staying active, eating well, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding alcohol can all contribute to reducing cancer risk and supporting your overall health. (Source: European Code Against Cancer)
Sometimes, your strength can inspire someone else. Seeing another woman make time for herself, stay active or take action for her health can be the encouragement someone else needs to do the same.
When women support and encourage one another, individual choices can become something bigger, helping create a stronger, healthier community.
This October, Curves is bringing women together around a simple message:
Know your body.
Stay active.
Get screened.
Look after yourself.
And encourage the women around you to do the same.
Ready to make your health a priority? This October, Curves is inviting women to join for free with a donation to a Breast Cancer Charity.*
Find your nearest Curves club to learn more and take your first step towards a stronger, healthier you.