I really really hate Kaiser,

but every now and then they come out with something that reminds me that even idiots can say something we should all listen to.

Not often mind you...but in this case, yes.

According to the survey, many women still believe that most breast cancer cases are caused by genetic mutations; however, only 5% to 10% of cases are genetic. In addition, the survey found that about two-thirds of women ages 18 to 24 believe breast cancer can be prevented. A woman's risk for the disease can be reduced by avoiding alcohol or taking hormone replacement therapy, but it cannot be eliminated, according to the Tribune. The survey also found that 70% of women believe eating enough fruits and vegetables will help prevent breast cancer, but there is scant scientific evidence to support the theory.

Four out of 10 of the women who participated in the study believe regular self examinations are the best way to detect breast cancer early, and about the same number of women believe mammograms are the best way to detect the disease early. According to the Tribune, studies have found that self-exams sometimes lead to anxiety and unnecessary biopsies and do not prevent deaths from breast cancer. Mammograms have been shown to decrease the risk of dying of breast cancer, but the screening can be inaccurate and can lead to diagnosis and treatment of a noncancerous tumor, the Tribune reports.

Fran Visco, president of NBCC, said messages that raise awareness about breast cancer "lull the public into a false sense that adequate progress is being made." She added, "There's a lot of misinformation out there. In order to take meaningful action, we need to educate, not just raise awareness." According to Visco, there is still much to learn about breast cancer before the disease can be cured.

To all of my friends and family I plead: If something is wrong with your body, listen!!!!

Cancer happens whether you are predisposed or not. Whether you eat sugar by the spoonful or abstain. It happens whether your mother's father's family ate only male fish on the 7th of every month under a full moon.

DON'T BE STUPID! Ladies, ONE in seven women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Look around. Between just the (very small) circle of people I know : Me, Tawnia, mom, Beth, Missi, Jenelle, Lisa....your odds aren't very good.

For some of us (previously diagnosed with any sort of non/hodgkins lymphomas) our chances are even higher.

Get yourself checked, stay informed, and DO NOT take no from a doctor. Only YOU know if something is wrong with yourself. Screw your family and friends who tell you otherwise. There are horror stories we've all heard (and some of us have gone through) about family and friends undergoing tests or treatments.

Listen to them. And support your loved-ones as they undergo their own horrors. Whether they choose to share them with you or not. (Love you guys!)

On that note, I'll be in Denver with Mags in November as she undergoes her Cystic Fibrosis tests and treatments. Love you AK! *licks*

Peace - O

B