Breast cancer affects one in every eight women and it is the second leading cause of death from cancer; only lung cancer is more fatal. In terms of prevention, there are risk factors that cannot be controlled, such as age and genetics. However, there are some lifestyle changes that can help to both lower the risk of developing breast cancer and the chances of dying from it. Before starting any new diet or exercise program, it is best to consult a physician to rule out any techniques that might be contraindicated based on your personal health history.
Identification
Breast cancer occurs when there is abnormal cell growth in the tissue of the breasts or within the milk-producing glands or their ducts. Cancer occurs when cells multiply and form a tumor, and sometimes this occurs for unknown reasons, reports MedlinePlus. A woman may be genetically predisposed or have been exposed to cancer-causing agents. Breast cancer sometimes only affects a small area of the breast, or it can spread to other areas of the body. In any case, healthy lifestyle changes may help some patients reduce their risk of developing this condition.
Considerations
Exercising at least four hours per week may help to lower certain hormones in the body that contribute to the development of breast cancer, reports the National Cancer Institute. Premenopausal women seem to benefit the most, especially those that are of a healthy weight. In addition, the more strenuous the exercise the greater the cancer protection. Along with reducing hormone levels, exercise may also help to boost the activity of the immune system so it is better able to handle abnormal cell growth.
The goal is to aim for four to five hours of a moderate or vigorous level of cardiovascular exercise such as walking, biking, swimming and dancing each week. A physician can recommend a safe level for you based on personal health and current treatments you may be receiving.
Features
A healthy, well-balanced diet can also help in the prevention and management of breast cancer. However, the role of diet requires much more research. The American Cancer Society suggests eating a diet that is low in fat and limits the consumption of high-fat meats. While eating a low-fat diet may not prevent breast cancer, eating a high-fat diet increases the risk of developing it.
It is important to get five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Limiting alcohol is also advised because heavy drinking is linked to an increased risk of this disease. Women should consume no more than one drink per day, which is equal to 12 oz. of beer, 5 oz. of wine or 1.5 oz. of 80-proof distilled spirits. To date there are no scientifically proven foods that reduce the risk of breast cancer, however further studies are being conducted.
Solution
Diet and exercise can help to keep weight under control. This is important because carrying extra weight, especially after menopause, can increase the risk of breast cancer by 30 percent to 60 percent, warns the Susan G. Komen for the Cure website.
Before menopause, estrogen is produced primarily in the ovaries. After menopause, estrogen primarily comes from fat tissue. The more fat a woman carries, the more estrogen is in the body and the higher the risk for breast cancer. Since weight gained in the early years may be carried into the later stages of life, weight should be kept at a healthy level during all ages. Weight gained in the 20s may increase the risk after menopause. Extra weight around the midsection may also raise the risk even higher than if the extra weight is around the hips.
Warnings
Screening is the most valuable tool for catching this disease early and improving outcome of treatment. A physician can recommend a regular schedule of mammograms, clinical breast exams, self breast exams and other tests based on your personal risk factors. Diet and exercise should be used in conjunction with medical care to ensure the best possible outcome.
