How To Reduce Risk Of Breast Cancer

breast cancer

Around 7 million people die from various cancer every year. Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer killer in women Also it affects the quality of life and has immense impact on emotions. Diagnostic and therapeutic measures of breast cancer also cause stress, pain, and depression. This disease has its consequences on family, marital, and social relations.

Risks of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer kills thousands of women every year. Although the exact cause is not known there are associated risk factors. Such factors are

Aging
History of breast cancer in the family
Specific changes in breast(s)
Gene changes
History of productivity and menopause
Lack of physical activity
Alcohol consumption
Obesity
Nutrition
Race
Radiation therapy to chest

Screening mammography can be done every year for women starting from age 40 to reduce risk of breast cancer

What is the type of physical exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight and decrease the breast cancer risk ?

It is advised to observe the following for a healthy weight :

At least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or
75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly

One of the above with strength training at least twice a week keeps you healthy.

Breast feeding can prevent breast cancer

Breast-feeding play a role in breast cancer prevention. The longer you breast-feed, the greater the protective effect.

Hormone therapy increases risk of breast cancer

Combination hormone therapy for more than three to five years increases the risk of breast cancer.

Radiation exposure/CT Scan in Breast cancer

Some studies showed relation between between breast cancer and radiation exposure so it is better to reduce your exposure to radiation.

Which diet reduces risk for breast cancer?

Mediterranean diet with extra-virgin olive oil and mixed nuts may reduce the risk of breast cancer in women.

Fruits ,vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts are healthy for your body and also reduces the risk of breast cancer.

Is there a relation between birth control pills and breast cancer?

Birth control pills , intrauterine devices (IUDs) increases the risk of breast cancer due to the hormone in it. Risk is estimated to be very small . The risk decreases after the medicine is stopped .

What is the role of family history in Breast cancer ?

Genetics is the primary cause of 5–10% of all cases. So women with family history of breast cancer to the mother should be vigilant about breast cancer detection.

When you should suspect breast cancer ?

appearance of new lump or mass in the breast needs a screen and consultation of doctor. If you develop some skin changes over breast always consult the doctor.

What is the common screening for breast cancer?

Mammograms are the common screening for breast cancer.

What is mammography ?

Mammography is a specific type of breast imaging that uses low-dose x-rays to detect cancer in early stages .This can detect the breast cancer before women experience any symptoms . At this point the disease is mostly treatable.

When I should have a screening mammogram ?

Mammography helps in early detection of breast cancers .

Mammography can show changes in the breast up to two years before it can be detected clinically.

Current guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40.

Research has shown that annual mammograms lead to early detection of breast cancers, when they are most curable and breast-conservation therapies are available.

breast cancer

Current guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the American College of Radiology (ACR) recommend screening mammography every year for women, beginning at age 40.