4 Ways to Take Control of Breast Cancer Risk
Breast cancer is among the common diseases that affect
women’s health. Studies reveal that breast cancer affects about one in eight
women in the U.S. The good news is women have an opportunity to prevent this
disease.
Lifestyle changes are the most effective
way for women to reduce the breast cancer risk.
1. Feed on a
healthy diet
Women ought to maintain a balanced and healthy diet,
which includes fruits, whole grains, vegetables as well as lean proteins.
Vegetables and fruits have phytochemicals that protect cells against damage
that may cause cancer.
On the other hand, while grains can help to reduce
inflammation, which may destroy healthy tissues and cells or weaken the immune
system. A healthy diet is also a good source of energy for staying active.
2. Exercise often
Exercising has been proved to lower breast cancer among
postmenopausal women. It’s recommended you exercise for 30 minutes minimum a
day and repeat it four or five times a week. The exercise may include running
or walking; ensure you breath faster or sweat.
Physically active women who eat a healthy diet usually
keep a healthy weight that reduces breast cancer risk compared to those who’re
overweight.
3. Avoid
second-hand smoke and tobacco use
Smoking is known to cause various diseases, and increases
the breast cancer risk as well, especially among young, premenopausal women.
There’s also a link between heavy second-hand smoke and the risk of breast
cancer among postmenopausal women. It’s therefore, advisable for women to avoid
second-hand smoke whenever possible.
4. Limit alcohol
intake
Excessive use of alcohol has been linked to a high breast
cancer risk. Compared to those who don’t taste alcohol, women who drink three
times a week have 15% higher risk of breast cancer. For every additional drink
a woman consumes daily, the overall breast cancer risk increases by 10%.
Screenings are
crucial
Mammograms are used for screening breast tissues for
cancer. They help to detect breast cancer when it’s still in initial stages and
thus, easy to treat. Screenings should start at about 40 to 45 years for those
at an average risk. However, women with a family history may need to go for
screening earlier or regularly.
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