Breast cancer affects millions, but there are steps you can take to lower your risk.
📌FIRSTLY YOU HAVE TO UNDERSTAND YOUR RISK FACTORS
Knowing risk factors of breast cancer matters.
1.If you have close family members (like your mother, sister, or daughter) who have had breast cancer, your risk could be higher.
2.Genetic factors, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, can significantly increase the chances of developing breast cancer.
Speak with your doctor about your family history and whether genetic testing might be right for you.. proactive
📌NOW WHAT WAYS CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF?
1. KEEP A HEALTHY WEIGHT
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important steps in reducing your risk of breast cancer, especially after menopause.
Excess body fat can increase estrogen levels, which fuels the growth of some breast cancers.
Aim to keep a weight within a healthy range by eating a balanced diet and staying physically active.
2. MOVE AROUND MORE
Physical activity has a big role in keeping your body healthy and lowering the risk of breast cancer.
Regular exercise helps manage your hormone levels, which can lower your risk of breast cancer.
Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking (walking a bit faster than usual), each week.
This is about 30 minutes a day, five days a week, and can also help with maintaining a healthy weight.
3. LIMIT ALCOHOL
Alcohol consumption is closely linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
Even small amounts can raise your risk, so it’s important to limit your intake.
If you choose to drink, keep it to no more than one drink a day.
Reducing alcohol, or avoiding it altogether, can lower your risk and have many other positive effects on your health
4. QUIT SMOKING
There is growing evidence that smoking is linked to breast cancer, especially in premenopausal women.
Quitting smoking is beneficial for your overall health and can also help reduce your cancer risk.
If you are a smoker, it is never too late to stop.
5. BREASTFEED IF YOU CAN
Breastfeeding offers a variety of health benefits, both for the baby and the mother.
It can also help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
The longer you breastfeed, the more you may reduce your risk.
Even breastfeeding for a few months can make a difference, as it helps control the hormones that can contribute to breast cancer development.
6. BE CAREFUL WITH HORMONE THERAPY
If you’re taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to manage menopause symptoms, be aware that it can increase your risk of breast cancer.
If you need HRT, use the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time.
ALWAYS your doctor first
7. EAT HEALTHY
What you eat plays a significant role in overall health, including breast cancer prevention.
A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, can help reduce your cancer risk. On the other hand, try to limit processed foods, and sugary beverages.
8. GO FOR REGULAR SCREENING
Getting regular mammograms and performing self-exams are important for detecting breast cancer early, when it’s easier to treat
Consult your doctor about when to start screening, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer
Early detection saves lives
📌Bottom line
By taking these steps, you can lower your chances of developing breast cancer and improve your overall well-being.
Research is ongoing, and new information about breast cancer prevention is always emerging.
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