Multiple research has been able to show that lifestyle changes can decrease the risk of breast cancer, even in women at high risk.
Keep reading to find out ways you can lower your risk:
Eat a healthy diet
Eating healthy improves your chances against breast cancer. You are advised to eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
Control your weight
Being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast cancer. This is especially true if obesity occurs later in life, especially after menopause.
Breast-feed
Breast-feeding might play a role in breast cancer prevention. The longer you breast-feed, the greater the protective effect. It is advised that breastfeeding for a total of one year or more (combined for all children) is advised for both mother and child as it also has great health benefits for the child.
Be physically active
Not only does physical activity help you maintain a healthy weight, but women who are physically active for at least 30 minutes a day have a lower risk of breast cancer. Aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly.
Limit alcohol
Research shows that alcohol consumption can increase your risk of breast cancer hence you should limit yourself to one drink a day.
Avoid smoking
Don’t smoke as everyone knows how unhealthy smoking is to health. Evidence suggests a link between smoking and breast cancer risk, particularly in premenopausal women. On top of lowering the quality of life and increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and at least 15 cancers – including breast cancer, it also causes smelly breath, bad teeth, and wrinkles.
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Avoid birth control pills especially after age 35
Birth control pills have both risks and benefits. The younger a woman is, the lower the risks are. While women are taking birth control pills, they have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer. This risk goes away quickly, though, after stopping the pill.
Don’t forget screening
Studies show that breast cancer screening with mammography saves lives. It doesn’t help prevent cancer, but it can help find cancer early when it’s most treatable.
The medical information provided in this article is provided as an information resource only. This information does not create any patient-physician relationship and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment\
AFP