Breast cancer is on the rise with estimates that one in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetimes. The importance of early detection is being emphasized and May is the first international "Breast Cancer Early Detection Month."

Locally, Dr. Ilene Crist-dahl, a naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist, and Linda Burquez, a medical Qigong practitioner, are collaborating to create a free "Breast Cancer Prevention Workshop" in support of women.

Earlier detection of breast cancer can improve survival rates and one tool that can support early detection is the Breast Check Aid designed to make a woman's monthly self-exam more efficient at detecting small breast lumps.

Dr. Cristdahl will share dietary recommendations and various nutritional supplements that have been found to be helpful at reducing the risk of breast cancer. She will discuss how bio-identical hormones relate to breast cancer.

Linda Burquez will teach specific Qigong exercises for the breasts that are simple, easy to learn and appropriate for women of all ages.

A free workshop will be offered twice on Saturday, May 24, 10 a.m. to noon, or 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., at Core Movement Center, 578 Searls Ave. in Nevada City. For information, call 470-0906 or visit www.coremovementcenter.com.

Dr. Ilene Cristdahl

Grass Valley