8 Simple Steps To Keep Breast Cancer Away

Life of a mom is not easy. Motherhood is full of responsibilities twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. These constant responsibilities put pressure on our mental and physical health. As mothers, we tend to neglect our health without realising it. We experience pain and aches but we do not give enough attention to them. Very often we know all it is essential to take care of ourselves but we don’t do it. It is something that so hard to do at times and yet so vital. But it is time to make a promise to yourself without making any excuses. It is the time to be aware and know the perils of this dreaded disease – breast cancer. Because we all know, proper education and early detection are the prerequisites that can save so many lives. Let’s find out how to prevent breast cancer.

Whenever we talk about the awareness, the first thing that comes to mind is usually “prevention”. As we all know, “Prevention is always better than cure“. There are many factors over the course of a lifetime that can influence the risk of breast cancer. Of course, some factors cannot be changed (such as family history) but there are ways to lower the risk of developing breast cancer. I am sharing 8 simple steps that can help in prevention of breast cancer.

Understand the disease and being aware of known risk and protective factors

The first step of prevention definitely requires understanding the disease, its risk and protective factors. Breast cancer is a disease where malignant cells form in the tissue of the breast. Unfortunately, it is the second most common cause of death for women across the globe.

Knowing what the disease really is makes it easier to tackle symptoms at an early stage.

Adopt a healthy lifestyle

Eat a healthy and balanced diet and exercise regularly. A healthy diet can lower the risk of breast cancer. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains not only keep our immune system healthy but they also play a vital role in the prevention of breast cancer. Along with a healthy diet, being physically active is must for a healthy body. Scientific studies suggest women who are physically active at least 30 minutes a day have lower chances of developing breast cancer.

Maintain an ideal weight

Of course, maintaining an ideal body weight is not always easy. But it should be an important goal for everyone. Being overweight increases the risk of different diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and breast cancer. So do not forget to keep a watch on your weight.

Limit alcohol and quit smoking

Alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing breast cancer. CDC (Centers for Disease control and prevention) strongly recommends avoiding entirely or limiting it to not more than one drink per day. There is also a link between smoking and breast cancer. To quit smoking is the best thing we can do to improve our overall health.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is the most amazing and empowering experience for women when they start their motherhood journey. It not only has great health benefits for the child but for the mother too. Breastfeeding is known to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

Limit exposure to radiation

Some scientific studies suggest that harmful radiation can cause DNA mutation in cells. We live in a high-tech world and we cannot entirely avoid radiation. But we can reduce the exposure by regulated usage of gadgets. And undergoing high radiation tests only when absolutely necessary.

Limit the dose and duration of hormonal therapy

Combination hormonal therapy is recommended by the doctors to relieve the common symptoms of menopause. But unfortunately prolonged use of this therapy associated with the increased risk of breast cancer. It is best to talk with your doctors about the risk and find out if it is right for you.

Regular screening

Even though screening does not help prevent breast cancer but it can help in early detection of the disease. Early detection is a must for better treatment. It increases the chances of survival and may increase the life expectancy. So ladies, talk to your doctor about which breast screening is right for you and when you should undergo it.

Apart from these basic preventive measures the last but not the least important thing-  find out your family history. If there is a previous family history of breast cancer or any kind of cancer in your family then be extra careful. Genetic testing can be used for women who are at high risk, and it may play a great role in prevention of disease.

So these were the simplest things that we can do to keep away this dreading disease from our future. Have you tried any other strategies to keep you and your family healthy? Do share them with us.

Surbhi is a qualified doctor (B.H.M.S.) with 5 year of teaching and clinical experience. She started her writing journey at the age of 17 and published various articles in famous news paper and magazines. The most incredible experience of her life is being a mommy of two cute dolls. Recently she started her own blog Positive Parenting. She loves to write on crafting, parenting issues and kids activity and wants to share her parenting journey with others.