How can I prevent Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and unfortunately, one in eight women will struggle with breast cancer at some point in their lives. While it's incidence is on the increase, a lot can be done to prevent or detect new cases early to prevent morbidity and mortality.
Am I at Risk of Having breast cancer?
Although some cases occur sporadically, some risk factors place some women at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. These include:
Family History of Breast cancer: Studies show that one's risk of developing cancer of the breast increases if one has a sister, mother or aunt with breast cancer.
Obesity : Maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce one's risk of having breast cancer. Studies have also shown that staying fit also decreases one's risk of developing heart and kidney problems. So ladies, it may be time to hit the gym and get to work!
Late age at first pregnancy : Having one's first live birth after the age of 30 years may increase one's risk of developing breast cancer. Studies have also shown that breast feeding may help reduce one's susceptibility to cancer of the breast.
Increased menstrual duration: Women who start seeing their menses earlier than age 12 and attain menopause after age 55 may have an increased risk. This may be due to increased exposure to a certain 'female hormone' called estrogen.
Birth Control pills : Being on hormonal contraceptives for more than 10 years has been implicated in the development of breast cancer.This risk however reduces when one stops the contraceptives.
Other Modifiable Life Styles : Other habits such as smoking, heavy alcohol drinking and sedentary lifestyles have also been linked to breast cancer.
How do I prevent Breast Cancer?
Life style Modifications :
If you notice any changes in the appearance, or feel any abnormal lump, pain, hardness or discharge, consult your doctor immediately.
Mammography
This is an imaging screening test that can detect changes in the breast 2 years before these changes can be seen or felt. It is recommended that women above 50 years have a yearly mammogram screening for breast changes.
 |
| Image credit: www.cccnevada.com/wp-content |
Am I at Risk of Having breast cancer?
Although some cases occur sporadically, some risk factors place some women at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. These include:
| Image credit: http://midintime.com |
Obesity : Maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce one's risk of having breast cancer. Studies have also shown that staying fit also decreases one's risk of developing heart and kidney problems. So ladies, it may be time to hit the gym and get to work!
Late age at first pregnancy : Having one's first live birth after the age of 30 years may increase one's risk of developing breast cancer. Studies have also shown that breast feeding may help reduce one's susceptibility to cancer of the breast.
Increased menstrual duration: Women who start seeing their menses earlier than age 12 and attain menopause after age 55 may have an increased risk. This may be due to increased exposure to a certain 'female hormone' called estrogen.
Birth Control pills : Being on hormonal contraceptives for more than 10 years has been implicated in the development of breast cancer.This risk however reduces when one stops the contraceptives.
Other Modifiable Life Styles : Other habits such as smoking, heavy alcohol drinking and sedentary lifestyles have also been linked to breast cancer.
How do I prevent Breast Cancer?
Life style Modifications :
- Be physically active
- Maintain a healthy weight
- No smoking
- Reduce alcohol intake
- Avoid long term hormone contraceptive use
Early detection by:
Self Examination
Self Examination
- Breast Inspection : Inspect your breasts regularly for any abnormalities like dimpling, orange-bark appearance, redness, abnormal discoloration or nipple discharge.
- Self Breast examination : Should be done once a month, preferably 3-5 days after your period ends. At this time, the breasts are less lumpy and easier to examine. It should involve the 'look, touch and squeeze' steps as seen below. Do not forget to also examine your armpits for any pain or swelling.
 |
| Image credit: https://static1.squarespace.com |
If you notice any changes in the appearance, or feel any abnormal lump, pain, hardness or discharge, consult your doctor immediately.
Mammography
 |
| Image credit : https://upload.wikimedia.org |
Comments
Post a Comment