October is breast cancer awareness month.

The National Cancer Institute estimated in 2004 that there are approximately 2.4 million women alive with a history of breast cancer.

The majority of these women were cancer-free, while some had evidence of remaining cancer and were still under treatment. Approximately 40,000 women die annually of this disease, as do about 450 men.

Yes, breast cancer also affects men. While it is much less common in males, we are significantly more likely to die of it due to a general lack of understanding and screening. This often results in cancer being detected in later stages, which reduces the chances of survival.

Cancer is a name for more than 100 diseases that cause cells to grow uncontrollably. It can start in numerous parts of the body and there are many different types. According to the Centers For Disease Control it is the second-leading cause of death in the U.S. behind heart disease.

Our cells are programmed to grow, divide and die in a fashion controlled by DNA. DNA is inside every cell, as it is in essence the "director" of the cell's activities. Damaged DNA causes cells to grow and divide in an unchecked fashion, which produces abnormal cells that may form a lump or tumor. This is not the case in all forms of cancer, but is for cancer of the breast.

Cancers may start in one area, such as the breast, and can spread or metastasize to areas like the bones, liver, lungs and others.

There are numerous factors that may influence whether or not we may develop cancer. Some of these factors are beyond our control, while others are related to lifestyle choices. Women with a first-degree relative (mother or sister) who developed cancer are more likely to also develop it. The risk goes up further if there is more than one first-degree relative diagnosed with cancer. Dense breast tissue is another risk factor, as is early onset of menstruation, late menopause, tall stature, Jewish heritage, and others. Women with the most dense breast tissue may be four to six times more likely to develop it than their counterparts with the least dense breast tissue.

These factors are beyond control, but the good news is that many risk factors are within the realm of personal choice: smoking, obesity, alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle and others. Consumption of two or more alcoholic drinks per day may up the risk by 21 percent. This list is absolutely not all-inclusive. Speak to your physician and refer to the American Cancer Society for a complete list.

To date there is no way to prevent breast cancer or any other cancers. Being proactive is crucial to remain abreast (pun intended) of your personal health. Women who are age 20-39 should perform a monthly self-exam and have a doctor's exam every three years. Women 40 and over are recommended to have a yearly mammogram and doctor's exam, as well as a monthly self-exam.

Cancer, like many diseases, may have no symptoms until later stages, at which point outcomes will be much less favorable than in cases of early detection. Vigilance and early detection are crucial to living a long, healthy life.

If you are not on top of your checkups, see your physician today. Your life may depend on it.

Dr. Nick Smith is a chiropractor at Active Life Chiropractic Center in Helena and is Montana's only certified Biomechanics of Posture practitioner. Reach him at 443-3965 or www.activelifemt.com.