DOCTOK

How Women Can Prevent Breast Cancer

Breast cancer. Just reading those words can make many women anxious because almost everyone knows someone who is affected by the condition. Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent forms of cancer affecting women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are more than 2.3 million cases of breast cancer that occur each year, which makes it the most common cancer among adults. In 95% of countries, breast cancer is the first or second leading cause of female cancer deaths.

But there is a lot of good news about breast cancer these days. Treatments keep getting better and while certain risk factors like genetics and age are beyond our control, there are numerous proactive steps women can take to reduce their risk of developing the condition. Empowering oneself with knowledge and adopting healthy lifestyle choices can significantly contribute to prevention efforts.

Important Steps to Prevent Breast Cancer

Keep a weight check: Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can mitigate this risk. Incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into one’s diet while limiting processed foods and sugary beverages can promote overall health and reduce the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

Be physically active: Engaging in regular physical activity not only helps in maintaining a healthy weight but also offers direct benefits in reducing breast cancer risk. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Activities such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming can be enjoyable ways to stay active and lower the risk of breast cancer.

Reduce alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption has been consistently associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Women should aim to limit their alcohol intake to no more than one drink per day, as recommended by health experts. Cutting back on alcohol consumption or abstaining altogether can significantly lower the risk of developing breast cancer.

Say no to smoking: Smoking is a well-established risk factor for various cancers, including breast cancer. Women who smoke should prioritize quitting and seek support resources to aid in their cessation efforts. Quitting smoking not only reduces the risk of breast cancer but also offers numerous other health benefits.

Try and breastfeed: For mothers, breastfeeding can confer protective benefits against breast cancer. Breastfeeding can help regulate hormone levels and reduce the number of menstrual cycles a woman experiences over her lifetime, both of which can contribute to lowering breast cancer risk. Whenever possible, women are encouraged to breastfeed their infants for as long as they can.

Eat a balanced diet: A healthy diet can help lower the risk of breast cancer. Try to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, sticking to a low-fat diet may help reduce the risk of breast cancer coming back. One study in which women got only about 25% of their daily calories from fat found a lower risk of recurrence, mostly in women who’d been diagnosed with estrogen-receptor-negative breast cancer.

Avoid Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Hormone replacement therapy, commonly used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Women considering HRT should discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and explore alternative treatments or lower-dose options whenever feasible.

Remember to do regular screening: Early detection is key in effectively combating breast cancer. Women should adhere to routine screening guidelines recommended by healthcare professionals. This typically includes regular mammograms and clinical breast exams. Self-examinations can also aid in detecting any changes in breast tissue promptly. Being proactive about screening can facilitate early diagnosis and improve treatment outcomes.

Check your family history: Women with a  family history of cancer may be at high risk of breast cancer. If you have a family history of breast cancer or inherited changes in your BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, talk to your doctor about other ways to lower your risk.A doctor or genetic counselor can help understand the history of the disease. 

While there’s no surefire way to prevent breast cancer entirely, adopting a proactive approach to health and wellness can significantly reduce one’s risk. By implementing these strategies and staying informed about breast cancer prevention, women can empower themselves to take control of their health and lower their chances of developing this disease. Regular screenings, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding known risk factors are crucial steps in the fight against breast cancer. Together, through education and proactive measures, we can work towards a future where breast cancer is not just treatable but preventable.