With the uncertainty in terms of how to prevent breast cancer, what women nowadays are trying to find is the method that may offer some protection. Some risk factors that pertain to genetic inheritance cannot be changed, however, through some lifestyle modification and consulting with breast cancer specialists in Bangalore, one can definitely lower the chances of developing breast cancer.
Studies have found that women who exercise vigorously or participate in intense activities are less likely to develop breast cancer compared to those who are non-exercisers. Although such a demonstration is noticed in younger, pre-menopausal women.
Starting with the obvious, can one lower the risk of breast cancer?
Although there is no sure way to fully prevent breast cancer, there are things a woman can do that might lower the risk. Lifestyle changes such as incorporating exercise into their daily routine, changing their diet, etc will assist in lowering the risk of developing breast cancer.
Tips that will help lower the chances of developing breast cancer
● Maintain a healthy weight:
Gained weight has always been associated with the development of multiple diseases. One of them is breast cancer. Increased body weight, as well as weight gain as an adult, can shoot up the risk of developing breast cancer after menopause. According to a study conducted by the American Cancer Society, any woman should maintain a healthy weight limit based on BMI throughout their life. This must be done by balancing the food intake and the amount of physical activity one incorporates into their daily life.
● Stay physically active:
Many studies have shown that an individual should always invest time in a moderate to vigorous amount of physical activity as it lowers the risk of breast cancer. Moreover, a source has revealed that any adult woman should get at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity workout, or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity every week. One can also combine the activities spread throughout the week for better time management. The goal should always be getting to or going beyond 300 minutes in a week.
● Limit alcohol consumption:
Alcohol generally increases the risk of breast cancer. Drinking even a small amount of alcohol has been linked directly with an increased risk of developing cancer. Therefore, it is safer to not drink alcohol at all. However, those who consume alcohol occasionally should not have more than one alcoholic drink a day. An alcoholic beverage generally refers to 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.
● Breastfeeding:
The same study has revealed that women who choose to breastfeed their children for at least six months will have a lower risk of developing cancer. The longer you choose to breastfeed, the more proactive the protective effect will be.
● Choosing an alternative treatment plan for menopause:
Many researches have pointed out the fact that the usage of hormone therapy after menopause can increase the risk of breast cancer. To avoid the manifestation of breast cancer, one should always take the matter to the health care provider and opt for non-hormonal options to treat the menopausal symptoms.
Women at higher risk of breast cancer
Women who have a strong family history of breast cancer which signifies the inherited gene mutation always run the risk of developing breast cancer. A study has shown that having a first-degree relative, say a mother, sister, or daughter, doubles the risk of developing breast cancer. Having two first-degree relatives increases the risk of evolved breast cancer about threefold. Although prevention of genetic mutation is tough, what you can do is take the necessary steps to keep yourself cautious. The following are the ways that can help you.
● Genetic counselling coupled with testing for breast cancer risk
● Getting prescribed medicines that lower the breast cancer risk
● Opting for preventive or prophylactic surgery
● Staying vigilant by closely observing to look for early signs of breast cancer.
Your breast cancer specialists in Bangalore will assist you in determining the risk of breast cancer, as well as which, if there are any of these options, are the right treatment for you.
Genetic counselling and testing
If you have reasons to believe that you might be bearing the mutated gene that enhances the risk of breast cancer, you might need to consult a breast cancer specialist regarding genetic counselling to see if you require it to be tested.
Medication
Medicines such as tamoxifen as well as raloxifene generally block the action of estrogen in breast tissue. Tamoxifen might be an ideal option for those who are yet to go through menopause, however, raloxifene is only ideal for those who have already started experiencing menopausal symptoms. A drug called aromatase inhibitors is the best option for women who are past their menopause. Keep in mind that all these medicines bear side effects, therefore, always consult your doctor and consume the medication under prescribed methods.
Ending note:
A source has revealed that 25.8 per 100,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in India. While one cannot override the manifestation of cancer, one can try to prevent it through a combination of different activities. Starting from maintaining weight, to managing the diet, one can prevent breast cancer.
Cancer Therapy India is the best breast cancer hospital in Bangalore with highly skilled surgeons and offers world-class treatment for your health and condition.
