It is estimated that 1 in 8 women in the U.S will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Also, it has been observed that breast cancer has been the most common cause of death among women afflicted with any type of cancer. Nearly 3.1 million women in the U.S. have a history of breast cancer according to statistics of 2017. In the midst of such staggering statistics, it is essential to know as early as for whether a woman is at the risk of breast cancer.
One of the best ways for breast cancer prevention is constant monitoring of health and regular screening. With extensive research, there are now effective breast prevention techniques and treatments available. An early detection is the best way to beat this disease. Whether you think you are susceptible to breast cancer or not, here are a few essential tips that will help you in breast cancer prevention:
Check family history
One of the most effective ways of breast cancer prevention is to be aware whether there is a family history of breast cancer. Breast cancer is often hereditary, passed on through genes across generations. There is a high risk of breast cancer if a close female relative or multiple family members (male and female) have been diagnosed with prostate, ovarian, or breast cancer. In such cases, it is necessary to take the help of genetic counselor or doctor to understand the presence of breast cancer in the genes.
Keep a check on drinking and smoking habits
Alcohol increases the levels of estrogen in the body. This increases the risk of breast cancer. Although there has been no substantial research to prove the link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer, doctors say drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week over a long period can cause a deterioration of health and cause breast cancer. Prolonged smoking can also increase the risk of breast cancer.
Check breast density
In younger women, there are more tissues than fat in the breasts. Since breast tissue and cancer tumors both appear white in mammography screenings, it becomes difficult to detect the presence of breast cancer tissues. It has been observed that women with denser breasts (more tissues than fat) are 6 times more likely to have breast cancer. Such women should undergo regular tests and screenings for breast cancer.
Eat healthy and stay fit
A healthy diet is the most effective ways for breast cancer prevention as well as for prevention of a lot of diseases. To prevent breast cancer include the following in your diet: turmeric, broccoli, garlic, onion, apples, pomegranate, nuts with omega-3 fatty acids, fish (tuna, salmon, mackerel, sardines), flaxseeds, and so on.
Breastfeeding
It has been observed that the risk of breast cancer reduces by 10% if a woman breastfeeds in the first six months. This is because while breastfeeding, women do not undergo menstruation. This reduces the total number of menstrual cycles over a lifetime. This results in a reduction in the levels of estrogen in the body, which decreases the risk of breast cancer.
