Most Indian women will not show
concern about the health of their breasts till the time they hear news
regarding someone they know being detected or died because of cancer. Breast
cancer is the most common form of cancer among Indian women. 1 in 28 women in
India develops breast cancer. Out of two who develop it, one dies.
Remember, the famous quote by
American Anchor Stuart Scott, “You beat cancer by how you live, why you
live, and in the manner in which you live.” Research shows that
lifestyle changes can decrease the risk of breast cancer, even in women at high
risk.
Limit alcohol: The more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of
developing breast cancer. The general recommendation — based on research on the
effect of alcohol on breast cancer risk — is to limit yourself to less than one
drink a day, as even small amounts increase risk.
Don't smoke: Evidence suggests a link between smoking and breast
cancer risk, particularly in premenopausal women. Quit smoking and also avoid
second-hand smoke if you are a non-smoker.
Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet might decrease your risk of
some types of cancer. For example, incorporating extra-virgin olive oil and
mixed nuts in your diet might reduce the risk of breast cancer. Prefer a diet
focused on plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains,
legumes, and nuts. Choose healthy fats, such as olive oil, over butter and eat
fish instead of red meat.
Control your weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of
breast cancer. This is especially true if obesity occurs later in life,
particularly after menopause.
Be physically active: Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy
weight, which helps prevent breast cancer. Most healthy adults should aim for
at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of
vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week.
Breast-feed: Breast-feeding might play a role in breast cancer
prevention. The longer you breast-feed, the greater the protective effect.
Limit dose and duration of hormone therapy:
Combination hormone therapy for more than three to five years increases the
risk of breast cancer. If you're taking hormone therapy for menopausal
symptoms, ask your doctor about other options.
Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution:
Medical-imaging methods, such as computerized tomography, use high doses of
radiation. While more studies are needed, some research suggests a link between
breast cancer and cumulative exposure to radiation over your lifetime. Reduce
your exposure by having such tests only when absolutely necessary.
Breast self-examination: Self-awareness is an important part
of every girl. Experience has verified that 90% of breast cancers are found by
women themselves. When women discover lumps in their breasts at a very early
stage, surgery can save 70-80% of proven cases. Check
for any unfamiliar indications like a lump on your breast or your armpits,
changes in the shape or size of the breast, dimpling of the skin, nipple pain
or retraction, eczema-like rash or discharge from the nipple, every month and
give yourself a self-breast exam if you are over 20 years of age. Women ageing
between 29-39 years should also include a 3-yearly clinical breast examination.
Regular routine mammography screenings: Having mammography is a
basic part of breast health that can save lives. The American Cancer Society
advocates starting yearly mammograms for all ladies at normal risk for
developing breast cancer after the age of 40. Ask your doctor when to begin
mammograms and other screenings based on your personal history.
Prevention
is always better than cure. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better
the chances of successful treatment. The 5-year relative survival rate for
women with localized breast cancer is close to 100%. Be vigilant, if you notice
any changes in your breasts and consult your doctor.
Comments
Post a Comment