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very 13 minutes, a woman in the United States dies of breast cancer. That figure, reported by the National Breast Cancer Coalition, is striking. On its website, NBCC does the math: Each day, 110 women will die in the United States. Over the course of a single year, the number will reach nearly 42,000. Worldwide, nearly 627,000 will die. Each year in October, the National Breast Cancer Awareness Month campaign helps to educate the public about symptoms, risk factors and the importance of early detection as well as screenings and prevention. In addition to raising awareness, the campaign also celebrates breast cancer survivors and honors those who have lost their battle with the disease. Breast cancer is the most common kind of cancer in women after skin cancer. About one in eight women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, in recent years there has been a gradual reduction in female breast cancer incidence rates among women aged 50 and older. Death rates from breast cancer have been declining since about 1990, in part due to
Think Pink
Events, fundraisers planned for Breast Cancer Awareness Month Compiled by LEE CLARK ZUMPE Tampa Bay Newspapers
better screening and early detection, increased awareness, and continually improving treatment options. Although great strides have been made in breast cancer awareness and treatment, there remains much to be accomplished. NBCAM lives on through the work of its previous collaborating partners who are dedicated to educating and empowering women to take charge of their own breast health. Following is a list of Tampa Bay area fundraisers, programs and events promoting awareness of breast cancer issues and raising funds to support the fight against the disease.
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer The American Cancer Society started Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks to unite communities in the fight against this deadly disease. The events are a celebration of survivorship and an occasion to express hope and the shared determination to make this breast cancer’s last century. Today, Making Strides is the largest network of breast cancer events in the nation. Funds raised through this campaign are used to support breast cancer patients, survivors,
and caregivers through every step of the journey — from groundbreaking breast cancer research to much-needed patient services such as free rides to chemo, free places to stay near treatment, and a live 24/7 cancer helpline. The following walks are planned in the Tampa Bay area: Hillsborough — Presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, Making Strides of Tampa will take place Saturday, Oct. 25, 7:30 a.m., at Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa. An event schedule has not yet been posted. To learn more about the Making Strides of Tampa or for other information, call 1-800-227-2345. You can also contact Meredith Tucker, the local American Cancer Society representative, at TampaFLStrides@cancer.org. Sarasota — Presented by Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Making Strides of Sarasota/Manatee will take place on Saturday, Oct. 25, 7 a.m., at Nathan Benderson Park, 5851 Nathan Benderson Circle, Sarasota. Check-in starts at 7 a.m. Opening remarks will be delivered at 8:15 See THINK, page 5
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for Women 4 Just Health & Wellness | September 2025
The pain that wouldn’t go away
How a 63-year-old’s refusal to accept “normal” results uncovered a cancer found in 1% of breast tumors
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By CHRISTINE BRYANT TBN Correspondent
hen Elen Trosino began feeling pain in her left breast, she feared the worst. A biopsy brought relief when the results came back benign, but that comfort didn’t last — her pain continued, and she knew something wasn’t right. The healthcare worker who lives in Port Richey considers herself diligent with labs, mammograms and other vital preventative care. She also lived a healthy lifestyle, running several miles a week and embracing adventures like zip lining, and has no family history of breast cancer. So, when she began experiencing discomfort in her breast toward the end of 2023, Trosino sought medical advice and underwent a mammogram. The imaging test revealed three lumps, prompting her healthcare providers to schedule a biopsy. The biopsy results showed no signs of cancer, however. “I was still concerned, but it put my mind at ease because it was benign,” she said. Yet the pain persisted. A follow-up biopsy revealed the same results as the first — no signs of cancer. When Trosino came in for a follow-up appointment with her medical team at CARES Senior Health Clinic in New Port Richey, she noted that she could feel a lump in the left breast with pain. Another biopsy was ordered. This time, the results showed malignant scar tissue. Her team immediately began the process of connecting Trosino with Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa and helping her get the health insurance she needed to cover any associated costs. In April, Trosino consulted with her doctor at Moffitt and underwent a biopsy, which showed that she had a malignant phyllodes breast tumor. Phyllodes tumors are rare and make up fewer than 1% of all breast tumors. Most cases are not cancerous, but 25% of phyllodes tumors are malignant, according to the Cleveland Clinic. While they can occur at any age, they are most commonly seen in middle-aged patients, according to research. Cancerous phyllodes tumors differ from other types of breast cancer because they are found in connective tissue. Trosino, now 63, says despite the life-changing news, she felt reassured when told that her prognosis was positive. “The good news was that it hadn’t spread to
the lungs,” Trosino said. “I told my doctor that whatever the next move is, I’ll go for it. I said that I needed to fix myself.” In May, doctors performed a lumpectomy, a common breast cancer treatment that removes cancer cells. Trosino underwent an additional procedure to remove a small margin of healthy breast tissue to ensure no cancerous cells were left behind. She is currently undergoing radiation treatment, Monday through Friday, over the course of six weeks. Her doctor has advised her that she only faces a 10% chance of the cancer returning, Trosino says. Now, she encourages other women to trust their instincts and pay attention to changes in their bodies. “You have to listen to yourself and don’t delay if you find something,” she said. “You have to fix it. Never hesitate. There is so much life ahead of us.” While Trosino says she is focused on living in the present, she is also thinking about her future with renewed hope. “I’m not the kind of person where if I’m sick, I’m down,” she said. “I can be very stubborn and never back down. Nobody or nothing can pull me down. I have to go on.”
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Health & Wellness | September 2025 THINK, from page 2 a.m. with the walk beginning at 9 a.m. The event will conclude at 11 a.m. To learn more about the Making Strides of Tampa or for other information, call 1-800-227-2345. You can also contact Jennifer Braun at Jennifer.braun@cancer.org. There are currently no Making Strides events scheduled for Pinellas or Pasco counties.
More Than Pink Walks Susan G. Komen, the world’s leading breast cancer organization, will host four More Than Pink Walks in Florida in 2024-25. The Komen More Than Pink Walks will take place in Tampa Bay, Miami, West Palm Beach, and Orlando. These events will bring together thousands of survivors, supporters and advocates to raise critical funds to advance Komen’s mission and provide support for people facing this disease now. Following is a schedule of upcoming More Than Pink Walks in Florida: • Tampa Bay — Saturday, Oct. 18, at University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Register at www.komen.org/tampabaywalk. • Miami/Fort Lauderdale — Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Miami-Dade County Youth Fair and Exposition Fairgrounds. Register at www.komen.org/ miamiwalk.
PASCO COUNTY Shine a Light on a Cure Shine a Light on a Cure, a breast cancer awareness event, will be presented on Saturday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at R.J. Kielty Plumbing, Heating and Cooling, 7979 Massachusetts Ave., New Port Richey. This will be a day filled with fun, community, and compassion. Attendees will come together to raise awareness and support in the fight against breast cancer. This family-friendly event will feature vendors, raffles and contests, touch-a-truck, petting zoo, face painting, bounce house, a blood donation bus and 3D mobile mammogram signups. All proceeds benefit breast cancer awareness and support initiatives. For information, visit https://www.facebook. com/events/755521607064927.
2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Shirt Place an order for the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Shirt, presented through a partnership between the Pasco County Professional Firefighters are once again teaming up with Firefighters Charities of Pasco. Firefighters Charities of Pasco are raising
awareness for breast cancer awareness with our 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness shirt, proudly designed in collaboration with Pasco County Firefighters Local 4420. These are available for the month of October. Pasco County Firefighters are approved to wear these shirts on duty for the month of October and firefighter families and fans can wear them all year round. A percentage of every sale will go to Firefighter Charities of Pasco to support the community, firefighters, and those in need. Visit https:// pascol4420merch.com/products/2025-breastcancer-awareness-shirt.
PINELLAS COUNTY
Walk for the Breasties Walk for the Breasties is set for Saturday, Oct. 11, 8 a.m. to noon, at Dr. William E. Hale Senior Activity Center, 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. The event celebrates every woman’s journey through breast cancer. Event organizers say that they will “Remember every life lost to this disease,” and that they are “grateful for our family, friends, caregivers, doctors and nurses who stayed by our side.” The registration fee is $35. Visit www. eventbrite.com.
Broncos for Boobies Broncos for Boobies will take place Saturday,
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Oct. 11, noon to 3 p.m., at OCC Road House, 10575 49th St. N., Clearwater. This event is all about raising awareness and funds for breast cancer. They’ll have a raffle with amazing prizes, food, and live music to keep you entertained. Bring your friends and family along to support this great cause. All proceeds go directly to Moffitt. For more information, visit https://fundraise. moffitt.org/campaign/699651/donate.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY Save the Tatas
Save the Tatas, a breast cancer walk, will take place on Saturday, Oct. 25, 9 a.m. to noon, at Rowlett Park, 2401 E. Yukon St., Tampa. This community event is dedicated to raising awareness and funding for diagnostic mammograms for minority women. Participants can expect: • A vibrant walk filled with energy, music, and community spirit • Opportunities to connect with local health resources • Fun activities, refreshments, and photo ops • A chance to make a real difference in women’s lives Come ready to walk, support, and celebrate the power of early detection. Visit www. eventbrite.com for details and to register.
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Drawing through darkness
Florida artist’s illustrated memoir chronicles breast cancer battle and the healing power of creativity
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By NANETTE WISER TBN Correspondent
hen life handed Ashley Gierke lemons at age 30, she transformed them into art. The artist turned her breast cancer journey into a life-affirming illustrated memoir that she hopes will serve as both therapy and inspiration for other women facing the disease. With support from a 2025 Arts Impact Fund grant through Creative Pinellas, Gierke is preparing to release “Lifectomy,” a memoir that combines her visual artistry with candid advice for navigating diagnosis, treatment and life after cancer.
From design to diagnosis Gierke, who holds a Master of Fine Arts from UC Davis, was working at a boutique interior design firm in Austin when cancer upended her world in 2014. A visual artist specializing in paper-cutting and illustration, she discovered drawing during her recovery from bilateral mastectomy surgery. “I decided to use this medium to explore my experience around loss, trauma, joy, femininity, relationships and the
many other complexities of being human,” Gierke said. Her upcoming memoir features approximately 75 carefully selected drawings from a collection of more than 300 she created during recovery.
Fighting for diagnosis Despite a family history of breast cancer — her great-grandmother had a lumpectomy in her 60s but lived into her 90s — Gierke tested negative for genetic markers. Medical guidelines typically recommend waiting until age 40 for mammograms, but Gierke knew something was wrong when she experienced swelling in her right breast. Without health insurance or a primary care physician, she initially sought help at Planned Parenthood. Staff there attributed her symptoms to menstrual cycles and referred her to the University of Texas at Austin’s Susan G. Komen Breast See DRAWING, page 12
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The basics of breast cancer
What is breast cancer?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow out of control. The breast is made up of three main parts known as the lobules, ducts and connective tissue, and which type of breast cancer a person has depends on which cells in the breast turn into cancer.
Is there a typical breast cancer?
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reast cancer is a formidable disease that affects millions of individuals each year. Data from the World Health Organization indicates 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022, when it was the most common form of the disease in 157 of 185 countries across the globe. The impact of breast cancer goes beyond those diagnosed with the disease, affecting friends, family members, professional colleagues, and others as well. That far-reaching impact means everyone has a vested interest in learning about breast cancer.
No two individuals diagnosed with breast cancer will have the same experience after being diagnosed. However, the CDC notes that most breast cancers begin in the ducts or lobules. The ducts are tubes that carry milk to the nipple and the lobules are the glands that produce milk.
What are some common risk factors for breast cancer? The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. notes gender is the foremost risk factor for breast cancer, as the WHO reports that 99 percent of breast cancers occur in women. Additional risk factors for breast
The impact of breast cancer goes beyond those diagnosed with the disease, affecting friends, family members, coworkers, and others as well. The basics of breast cancer provide insight into the disease and what women can do to reduce their risk of developing it.
cancer include age, with two out of three women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer being older than 55, and race, as the disease affects more Caucasian women than women of other races. The NBCF also notes that women who have dense breast tissue may be at greater risk for breast cancer because such tissue can make it harder to detect lumps.
What causes breast cancer?
The NBCF notes that most women who have breast cancer will never be able to identify an exact cause behind their disease. Common risk factors like gender and age are beyond women’s control, but there are some controllable risk factors that can be
avoided. The WHO notes that overconsumption of alcohol and tobacco use are two such factors.
How important is early detection?
The American Cancer Society reports that the five-year survival rate for breast cancers discovered in the localized stage is 99 percent. That underscores the significance of early detection. The NBCF notes monthly breast self-exams and routine clinical exams increase the likelihood of early detection. Women are urged to speak with their physicians regarding how frequently they should be tested, as recommendations vary depending on each individual and their respective family histories.
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You’re not powerless against gestational diabetes Area doctors debunk the myth that pregnancy diabetes is inevitable, revealing how healthy habits can cut your risk
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By CHRISTINE BRYANT TBN Correspondent
ne of the biggest misconceptions Dr. William Bradfield sees as an OBGYN at AdventHealth Zephyrhills is patients believing that gestational diabetes is going to happen to them and is beyond their control. The type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy isn’t inevitable, and many women can reduce their risk through healthy habits, he says. “Genetics, of course, play a role as do the hormonal changes of pregnancy, but optimizing one’s health prior to pregnancy is critically important in reducing the risks for gestational diabetes,” he said. The Florida Department of Health reports that gestational diabetes affects an estimated 9% of all pregnancies. It occurs when carbohydrate intolerance develops during pregnancy. “Gestational diabetes is a condition where pregnant women have too much glucose, or sugar, in the blood,” said Dr. Megan Tirone, vice president and chief medical officer for BayCare Women’s Health Services. “Gestational diabetes specifically refers to diabetes that develops during pregnancy, as opposed to Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, which occur outside of pregnancy.” The body produces a hormone called insulin that keeps blood sugar levels in the normal range, Tirone said. During pregnancy, higher levels of pregnancy hormones can interfere with insulin. Usually, the body can make more insulin during pregnancy to keep blood sugar normal, she said. “But in some women, the body cannot make enough insulin during pregnancy, and blood sugar levels go up,” she said. “This leads to gestational diabetes.”
Gestational diabetes cases on the rise Health data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show the number of patients with gestational diabetes is on the rise in the United States. From 2016 to 2021, the percentage of mothers diagnosed with this condition rose from an estimated 6% to 8.3%. “Rates are rising and the major reason is due to the increasing prevalence of obesity and sedentary lifestyle,” Bradfield said. Risk factors include increasing age, obesity and a low-activity lifestyle, Tirone said. Research
“Pregnant women will need to track their blood sugars routinely, monitor their diet and have regular exercise. Some women will need additional medication as well to control their blood sugars.”
— Dr. Megan Tirone, vice president and chief medical officer for BayCare Women’s Health Services
has shown that certain genes can increase a person’s risk. “In addition, you are at increased risk if you had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy or a very large baby, if you have high blood pressure or heart disease, or if you have polycystic ovarian syndrome,” she said. “It is important to note, however, that gestational diabetes can develop in women with no risk factors.”
Risks for mothers and babies later in life One of the most serious concerns with gestational diabetes is its impact on the baby. Elevated blood sugar levels can cause excessive growth, leading to a higher risk of birth trauma, Tirone said. “They can have low blood sugar at birth, problems breathing and jaundice,” she said. “There is also an increased risk of stillbirth with gestational diabetes.” Women face their own set of risks as well and are more likely to have high blood pressure and preeclampsia. “Because the babies may be larger, the woman may experience labor difficulties, cesarean birth or heavy bleeding after surgery,” she said. Women with gestational diabetes are at a greater risk of developing diabetes within 25 years after their pregnancies as well, Bradfield says — as many as up to 70% according to See DIABETES, page 11
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Health & Wellness | September 2025 DIABETES, from page 10 research. “There have been studies showing that fetal exposure to maternal diabetes contributes to childhood and adult-onset obesity and diabetes in these children, independent of the risks associated with obesity and genetic predisposition,” he said.
How gestational diabetes is detected and prevented Most pregnant women are familiar with the gestational diabetes test, often called the “glucose test,” which is a routine part of prenatal care around 24 to 28 weeks. Patients with preexisting risk factors for undiagnosed Type 2 diabetes, who are overweight or obese, have a history of polycystic ovarian syndrome, or have had previous gestational diabetes are typically screened earlier, Bradfield says. The test involves drinking a sugary solution and having blood drawn about an hour later to see how the body processes glucose, with further testing if results are high. If a doctor determines a patient has gestational diabetes, more frequent prenatal visits to monitor the health of the pregnant woman
and fetus likely will occur, Tirone said. “Pregnant women will need to track their blood sugars routinely, monitor their diet and have regular exercise,” she said. “Some women will need additional medication as well to control their blood sugars.” Women with gestational diabetes should have a blood glucose screening four to 12 weeks after delivery and every one to three years after to screen for the condition, she said. While gestational diabetes can’t always be prevented, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and staying active before and during pregnancy can help lower the risk, Bradfield says. However, for women who receive a diagnosis of gestational diabetes, Bradfield says the condition can be successfully managed with healthy lifestyle changes, regular monitoring and the support of the patient’s healthcare team. “Don’t be hard on yourself nor hang your head low,” Bradfield said. “You will learn so much going forward and you can and will have a happy and healthy pregnancy. You will learn valuable pieces of information that will enable you to lessen your risks and the risks for your baby as you both grow together, while pregnant and beyond.”
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for Women 12 Just Health & Wellness | September 2025 DRAWING, from page 6 Cancer program. The path to diagnosis proved frustrating. An initial physical examination found nothing, but Gierke persisted until she obtained a mammogram. “Suddenly there were three people looking at the screen, and they immediately gave me an ultrasound and recommended a biopsy,” she recalled. “For any woman going through this, you have to be your own advocate and trust your body and what you feel.”
Treatment challenges Even with a Stage 1 diagnosis, Gierke faced delays. She had to wait a month for Affordable Care Act insurance coverage before seeing an oncologist who performed the bilateral mastectomy. Complications followed. During reconstruction with silicone implants, she developed a serious staph infection requiring two additional surgeries. In total, she underwent five procedures, though she did not need chemotherapy or radiation. The medical ordeal coincided with the end of what she describes as a toxic long-term relationship, both experiences proving life-altering. “I turned to drawing to process my emotions,” she said.
Life after cancer Now 42 and living in Clearwater, Gierke undergoes annual breast cancer screenings and maintains lifestyle changes she adopted after diagnosis. Initially strict about avoiding caffeine, alcohol and sugar while following a vegan diet, she has since relaxed some restrictions. However, a scare on her 10-year anniversary prompted her to return to juicing, swimming and focused self-care. Throughout her journey, support proved crucial. Friends and her brother traveled to Austin, while her mother moved in before the mastectomy. “What helped me get through this was the support, wanting more for my life and future, to fulfill my dreams,” she said.
Message of hope Gierke’s advice for other women facing breast cancer centers on creativity and self-advocacy. “Creativity and making can be healing,” she said. “I’d love to inspire others to process their emotions through making art or some type of creative practice. I want them to know that thriving after illness is possible and that things we sometimes perceive as horrible can lead to wonderful and positive things.” She emphasizes the importance of active par-
ticipation in medical care, noting that mistakes occurred during her treatment despite her advocacy efforts. “I can’t stress enough the importance of participating in your own care and treatment through asking questions, being informed, engaged and paying attention,” she said.
Finding joy in art Now living her childhood dream as a full-time artist, Gierke draws inspiration from Louise Bourgeois, Yayoi Kusama and sculptor Kathleen Ryan. Growing up outside Chicago, she frequented the Art Institute of Chicago and Museum of Contemporary Art. Today, the Dalí and Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg rank among her favorites. While paper remains her preferred medium for painting, drawing and sculpture, she experiments with textiles, emojis and even shaving cream, blending techniques to explore form, texture and emotional depth. When not creating art, she enjoys treasure hunting for shells at the beach or furnishings at estate sales, spending time with friends and family, listening to podcasts, photography and daily journaling through “Morning Pages.” Her constant companion is Whiskey, a 16-year-old Chinese Crested-Yorkie mix she calls “the light of my life.”
An illustration from Ashley Gierke’s “Lifectomy” memoir. Eleven years after diagnosis, Gierke reflects on her transformation with gratitude. “I am grateful to have found drawing as a way to process my emotions and witness my own strength,” she said. “If you are at any stage of a cancer journey or struggling with loss, I hope you are able to create some version of a healthy practice for yourself that brings you healing. You are certainly worth the time and effort.”
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Regarding menopause
At Your SEPARATING FACT FROM FICTION Service M
Call the Pros! Get your job done right the first time.
enopause is a natural biological function that takes place in a woman’s life. Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, meaning she will no longer be able to conceive children. Menopause often is misunderstood, largely due to persisting myths. Separating the facts from fiction can help provide clarity regarding this stage in a woman’s life.
Fiction: Menopause happens suddenly on a specific date. Fact: Menopause is a gradual process that begins with a stage known as perimenopause. This is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, which can last four to nine years. The North American Menopause Society says most women begin perimenopause in their mid- to late-40s and reach menopause around age 51 on average.
particularly those under age 60 or within 10 years of the onset of menopause. A Women’s Health Initiative study in the early 2000s initially correlated HRT to increased risk of breast cancer, heart disease and stroke. Today, updated reviews from the National Institutes of Health clarify that these risks depend on individual factors. HRT remains the most effective treatment for hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Fiction: You’ll know in advance when you’ve reached menopause. Fact: Menopause will not be evident until after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. Fiction: Hot flashes are the only symptom of menopause to be concerned about. Fact: Menopause (and perimenopause) can bring on a variety of symptoms. John’s Hopkins Medicine says approximately 75 to 80 percent of women will experience hot flashes during menopause. However, additional symptoms may include night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood swings, joint pain, and memory problems. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that symptoms and their severity vary widely among women. Fiction: Menopause is depress-
Fiction: Menopause will put an end to intimacy.
Fact: Some women report
ing and a sign of “getting old.” Fact: Menopause is a natural life stage and not a sign of decline. Many women report feeling more confident after menopause has occurred and less stressed not having to keep track of menstrual periods. A 2023 survey from the American Association of Retired Persons found that
71 percent of women between the ages of 45 and 59 felt empowered to take charge of their health during menopause.
Fiction: Women just have to grin and bear the menopause transition. Fact: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is safe and effective for many women,
changes in libido and vaginal comfort after menopause takes place, but many women remain sexually active and happy. A study in Menopause, the official journal of the NAMS, found 60 percent of women between the ages of 50 and 79 reported being sexually active. Various products and treatments can support sexual health as women age.
Health care for young women
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ealth and wellness may not be foremost on the minds of most girls and young women. This time in their lives is full of big emotions and significant changes. As a result, health is not often prioritized, or might be a cause of embarrassment for those who are seeking answers. A recent analysis of 2022 KFF Women’s Health Survey data, which studied women between the ages of 18 and 35 with a clinical visit in the past two years, found that more than 45 percent
report experiencing a negative interaction during those visits. Common complaints include personnel who are dismissive of patients’ concerns. As a result, many women, and particularly young women, often go online to address common concerns instead of making a health care appointment. Although no advice can replace the expertise of a qualified and caring doctor, nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant, young women can be mindful of these health issues.
Anxiety and depression
Irregular periods
Feelings of sadness or nervousness are experienced by just about everyone at some point. When these feelings become chronic or are negatively affecting a woman’s life, they may be a byproduct of anxiety or depression. These conditions tend to be different sides of the same coin. Mental health experts have determined that women tend to have higher rates of these common mental issues than men. The good news is that these conditions are highly treatable.
Breast health
Breast development differs for girls. Some will develop early, while others, such as those heavy into sports, may see a delay in puberty and breast development. Stretch marks may form from rapid growth of the breasts. Young women should be mindful of any changes in the breasts, including discharge, skin redness or lumps. Breast care that starts early on can lead to a routine that continues later in life.
It is normal to experience irregular periods for the first few years of menstruation, and sometimes even longer, says Nemours Health. The average menstrual cycle will last between 21 and 35 days. Excessive exercise, failure to eat enough calories, certain medicines, stress, and other conditions may lead to irregularity. The only way to know what is going on is to visit a provider.
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Energy drinks
In October 2023, a college student with a heart condition perished after consuming a caffeine-enhanced lemonade at a popular franchise food chain. She did not realize the drink contained more caffeine than many energy drinks. The Center for Women’s Health advises that energy drinks are not recommended for teens, and that combining energy drinks with alcohol can be extremely dangerous.
Healthy diet and exercise
Cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of women, indicates the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Young women should keep this in mind and develop healthy eating and exercise habits that can promote good heart health throughout life.
Sweating and body odor
As hormones fluctuate, the body changes in different ways. Excessive sweating and/or the development of stronger body odor may be a symptom. Body odor occurs when sweat mixes with natural bacteria on the skin. Taking showers regularly, wearing cotton or natural fabrics, using an antiperspirant/ deodorant, and drinking plenty of water may help.
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