Around 1.5 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer globally every year. Developed nations like the US, UK, New Zealand and Australia have the highest recorded breast cancer rates. The older one gets, the higher the risk of breast cancer. A large number of men suffer and die from this disease too. In this blog, let’s see how to cut the risk of breast cancer.
It is said that 1 out of 8 women suffer from breast cancer. Early detection and treatment reduce the death rate and in many cases even remove the risks completely.
How to Reduce Breast Cancer Risk?
Before we get into the actual tips to cut the risks of breast cancer, let’s look at the significance of doing a frequent mammogram.
Have your breasts checked by a physician regularly, especially after the age of 40. Make it a point to take a mammogram at least once a year after the age of 40. 2D and 3D mammograms provide accurate results, reducing the need for one to undergo unnecessary biopsies. Include a mammogram in your list of the five doctor appointments women should make every year.
It is also vital to know the normal look and feel of your breasts. In case you notice any changes in the development of breast, you must consult your doctor immediately. Some of the symptoms of breast cancer include changes in the size of the breasts, an inverted nipple, a lump in the breast or armpit, and unusual nipple discharge.
Breast ultrasounds and MRIs are also viable methods of early detection and can be practiced regularly.
Breast Tissue Density and Breast Cancer
A mammogram clearly shows your breast density. Women with denser breasts are at a higher risk of getting breast cancer. In other words, the more the density, the greater the risk of breast cancer, but scientists and researchers are yet to find out why. The density of a woman’s breasts can change over her lifetime.
Things to be Avoided
- Obesity hugely increases a person’s risk of suffering from breast cancer. So, you must always eat healthy and stay active. Maintaining a proper diet is also one of the tips to lead a healthy happy life.
- Consumption of large amounts of alcohol increases a person’s risk rate by over 50%. Doctors suggest that if women should drink regularly, it would be best to limit the amount to one drink per day.
- Smoking is harmful to the body and should be avoided; it is the cause of more than one kind of cancer.
Birth Control and Breast Cancer
Women taking birth control pills are at a higher risk of breast cancer when compared to women who don’t. So, before you decide to take “the pill,” consult your doctor or healthcare provider to find out if it is okay to do so. You need to be highly cautious when it comes to using other types of contraceptives as well because contraceptives and breast cancer are connected. Although not medically proven, many doctors believe that a person’s abortion rate directly affects the risk rate for breast cancer.
Puberty and menopause are important stages in a woman’s life. Women who attain puberty early and reach menopause late face a higher risk of breast cancer because of the body’s prolonged exposure to excessive oestrogen. The body also undergoes several other changes during and after menopause, and a woman has to master fighting menopause blues.
When it comes to pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is recommended that women should breastfeed their children for as long as possible. Not only is it good for the child but also very healthy for the mother.
Pollutants and Radiation
Environmental pollutants affect the body in the long run and can cause breast cancer. Therefore, avoid exposure to pollution. Also, exposure to radiation should be totally avoided or kept to a minimum. Studies have shown that radiation exposure increases a person’s risk of breast cancer by almost twice.
Cosmetics and Other Products
Use simple and basic cosmetics. Cosmetics and other vanity products often contain a concoction of different chemicals, which when exposed to the body in the long run can cause not just breast cancer, but other types of cancer as well. Sunscreen with UV filters that mimic oestrogen is very harmful to the body because of its absorption rate.
Most cosmetic/perfume manufacturers do not disclose their chemical composition because their competitors might take advantage of their products. In the process of suppressing this information, many harmful chemicals that get mixed into the making of the fragrances are also not disclosed. Many fragrances contain harmful chemicals that over long periods of time can cause many body ailments and alterations.
Skin lightening and bleaching products are also harmful when consistently used. Choose your antiperspirants wisely; most antiperspirants contain amounts of aluminum, which can cause cancer.
The above are some of the tips to cut the risk of breast cancer.
Breast Cancer Prevention Foods
Now, let’s take a glimpse at some of the breast cancer prevention foods.
Consumption of food products like flaxseed, green leafy vegetables, pomegranates, broccoli, cauliflower, walnuts, berries, turmeric, pepper and nuts are said to help reduce the risk of breast cancer. Fish and poultry can be added in amounts suggested by your doctor. Consumption of fatty food items must be reduced. However, fruits and vegetables should be consumed on a regular basis.
FAQs
- Can breast cancer be prevented?
Breast cancer can be prevented by taking certain precautionary measures. Having a proper diet, regular exercising, and avoiding smoking and drinking are some of those measures. If you have a family history of cancer, you must be extra careful. Keeping a healthy lifestyle and protecting yourself from carcinogens can help prevent the onset of cancer.
- What are the foods to avoid breast cancer?
Alcoholic beverages and smoking must be avoided. Red meat and processed meat must be taken in very limited quantities. If possible, avoid them altogether. Fatty items may increase the risks of cancer.
- How do I keep my breast healthy?
You can always keep your breasts healthy by following a balanced diet and working out regularly. Never wear clothing that constricts your breasts and affects their movement. If you see any abnormal changes in your breasts, consult your doctor at once.
