How to Protect Yourself from Breast Cancer

• 2020-10-13 04:27:55
• Selcuk Ince

On a global scale, breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer together with lung cancer. In 2018, 2,09 million people were diagnosed with breast cancer. And the month of October is recognised as the “Breast Cancer Awareness Month”. So, it’s time to focus on how to protect yourself from breast cancer.

Exercise

Exercise can protect you in different ways. First, it helps control weight. Second, it has positive effects on the hormone level of the body. Multiple studies show that extra weights increase the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer risk. The more bodyweight has, the more oestrogen the body stores. Also, oestrogen stimulates tumour growth.

Regular exercise like 2,5 hours a week will keep your weight under control, and it will also lower oestrogen levels and improve your immune system.

Limit alcohol

There is a strong correlation between the consumption of alcohol and breast cancer. It would be a good idea to limit alcohol to prevent cancer risk since even small amounts increase the risk. Studies show that even one glass per day raises your risk.

Eat healthy food

By eating healthy food, we mean eating fruits and vegetables more. Choose fresh and organic food to avoid exposure to hormones or pesticides.

Don’t smoke

Smoking has lots of negative effects on health. It’s not only bad for your lungs. One of the damages is the increase in breast cancer risk. People who smoke for 10 years or more are at least 16% more possible to have breast cancer. It also lowers the quality of life.

Self-exam yourself

It’s a good idea to familiarise with yourself your body and how it looks. You can perform self-exams to detect any risks beforehand.

Mammogram

Studies show that radiation coming from a mammogram is lower than the expected. Moreover, new mammograms use 22% less radiation than old devices and you get a clear state of your breasts.

Stay away from hormone therapy

Using hormone therapy after menopause will increase the risk of breast cancer. Consult with your doctor for other options.

Get information about the cancer history of your family

Around 10 percent of breast cancer passes through generations. Both your father and mother have the same effect on your genes.

Breastfeed

If possible, breastfeeding your child will lower the risk of breast cancer. Breastfeeding allows hormonal changes in your body, and this will contribute to delay in menstruation. When the menstruation delays, you will lower the level of oestrogen.

Take preventive medicine if you’re at risk

It’s a good idea to answer a series of questions for risk factors. After the test, if your risk is higher than 70%, talk with your doctor for preventive medicine. Some pills could lower the risk by 50%.