It is possible to protect yourself from breast cancer by making some changes in your lifestyle? What are the 9 ways to prevent breast cancer?
Approximately half of newly diagnosed breast cancers are linked to risk factors such as early menstruation, late first birth age, late menopause. It is also associated with familial breast cancers in approximately 5-10 percent. The rest depends on modifiable factors such as lifestyle and environmental factors. It is possible to prevent breast cancer with basic lifestyle changes.
9 ways to prevent breast cancer:
Experts who knock on the door of women most often, explaining 9 ways to prevent breast cancer in one in eight women, have given important warnings and recommendations.
Eat healthily and maintain a healthy weight
Obesity in particular increases the risk of hormone-sensitive breast cancer. Excess adipose tissue in the body increases estrogen, posing a risk for breast cancer. Since studies indicate that the Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of breast cancer, it is necessary to consume vegetables and fruits and fibrous foods during at least 3 servings of the day. Avoid processed foods and fatty foods.
Be physically active and exercise regularly
Studies carried out; regardless of obesity, physical activity and exercise of 40 minutes at least 3 days a week are protective against breast cancer.
Stop smoking, get support if necessary
Smoking is also a risk factor for breast cancer. Avoid all types of tobacco derivatives, including electronic cigarettes. If you smoke, seek advice to quit as soon as possible.
Watch your sleep patterns
The World Health Organization considers sleep disorders to be among the carcinogenic effects. Studies of women working night shifts show that the risk of breast cancer increases in these women. There is growing evidence that melatonin, a hormone released during sleep, is protective against cancer.
Stay away from alcohol
“Women who regularly consume 2-3 glasses of alcohol per day have a 20 percent increased risk of breast cancer. Even those who consumed a glass of alcohol a day were shown to have a 7 percent increased risk. In the last few years, international oncology associations, the World Health Organization have been increasingly drawing attention to alcohol use.”
Get your annual scan done
If you’re over 40, get your annual scan even if you don’t have any complaining and family history. Early diagnosis saves lives. One in five women diagnosed with breast cancer is saved in annual examination, mammography and ultrasound screening programs.
Lactation
Studies carried out; it reveals that having a baby at an early age and breastfeeding the baby is protective against breast cancer. During breastfeeding, breast tissue is exposed to a lower rate of estrogen and protection increases as breastfeeding time increases.
Seek advice if necessary
If your family, especially those close to first and second degree, have a history of breast cancer, it’s useful to seek genetic counseling for screening. In particular, some gene mutation carriers that are known to be associated with breast cancer and can be transmitted over generations have preventive measures that can be taken before breast cancer occurs.
Do not use unnecessary hormone drugs
Medical Oncology Specialists say; “Do not take unnecessary hormone drugs. Hormonal treatments are treatments that should be performed very carefully, under the supervision of a close physician. Fertility treatments and hormone replacement treatments do not reduce the risk under the supervision of a close physician. I suggest we avoid prolonged treatments. Mammographic and ultrasonographic follow-ups should be performed more carefully during this period.”