12 Tips to Help You Prevent Breast Cancer
By PositiveMed-Team
Edited By Stephanie Dawson
Breast cancer is one of the leading forms of cancer and has become a cause for concern in millions around the world. Here are some tips that can help you avoid breast cancer naturally.
1. Be breast aware
Studies show more than 85% cases of breast cancer are detected by victims. Regular self-examination can help you avoid the problem by detecting it early. Do not daily examine your breasts as it can make you overly anxious, try once a month. Look for unusual things and notify your doctor immediately.
2. Stay active
Various studies prove that 45-50 minutes of exercise 3-4 times a week can reduce the risk of breast cancer by more than 30%. Doing things that increase your heartbeat and leave you sweaty is ideal for reducing this risk. It’s not necessary to hit the gym, a simple brisk walk or dancing around the house qualifies as moderate exercise.
3. Maintain healthy weight
One study found that post-menopausal weight gain in women is directly related to breast cancer, a small gain of even 5 kilograms can increase risk of breast cancer. Gaining weight increases estrogen production which results in accumulation of fat tissue responsible for most breast cancers.
4. Breast-feed your babies
Research has established a link between breast-feeding babies and breast cancer, the reason why exactly is unknown at this time. Researchers also believe that if a young mother breast-feeds her baby for an extended period she tends to have better breast health. Breast-feeding reduces the estrogen hormone levels and reduces the risk of breast cancer.
5. Check your alcohol intake
Excess alcohol can increase the likelihood of getting breast cancer, even moderate consumption can be dangerous for breasts, safe quantities are still disputed. Some experts believe that drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week is bad for overall health.
6. Avoid fat
Consumption of unhealthy fats are responsible for increasing risk of breast cancer. Fat consumption increases the accumulation of fatty tissue which is the leading cause of breast cancer. Unhealthy fats should be replaced with healthy monounsaturated fats like those in nuts.
7. Consider aspirin
Estrogen is the hormone responsible for breast cancer, aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug which reduces production of estrogen and reduces risk of breast cancer. Consult your doctor before starting this medicine.
8. Avoid pesticides exposure
Recent experiments show frequent exposure to pesticides and other harmful chemicals is linked with breast cancer. These chemicals may be present in rat poisons and mosquito-repellent coils. Try to stay away from such chemicals for reduced breast cancer risk.
9. Control hormone therapy
Prolonged hormone therapy between 3-5 years can increase risk of breast cancer. If you are on hormone therapy because of menopausal symptoms talk to your doctor about replacing it with natural therapies. If unavoidable use the lowest possible dosage that works for you.
10. Don’t smoke
Statistics suggest that smoking is responsible for more than 30% of cancer deaths including breast cancer. Not smoking is the biggest favor you can do for your body.
11. Check your family history
If someone in your family has ever had breast cancer you should be extra cautious. Around 10% of all breast cancer cases are genetically caused. Talk to your family members and include your doctor in discussions so that preventive measures can be taken.
12. Don’t ignore lumps
Sometimes we ignore lumps hoping they will go away and don’t report them to our doctor. This is a big mistake which can make breast cancer uncontrollable due to late identification. Don’t ignore lumps, visit your doctor immediately so that they can be thoroughly checked out.
