October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and this means doing your part to bring awareness to this disease all month long. We highly encourage you to visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s site to learn more about the disease and how you can get involved.
Thinking About Risk Reduction During Breast Cancer Awareness Month
After visiting the National Breast Cancer Foundation’s website you now know that there are numerous ways you can get involved and help spread awareness this month. In addition to this awareness, it is equally as important to start thinking about how you can decrease your risk of developing breast cancer.
Tips for Decreasing Your Risk of Breast Cancer
Limit Alcohol
Studies have shown a link between cancer, specifically breast cancer, and alcohol consumption. Aim to limit your alcohol consumption to one drink per day - less than that is even better!
Don’t Smoke
Research has shown a connection between smoking and developing breast cancer. In addition to breast cancer smoking is linked to a wide number of diseases including; lung disease/cancer, heart disease, oral cancer, etc. Don’t smoke and if you are a smoker quit today.
Weight Control and Physical Activity
Maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active can help to reduce your risk of developing cancer. Most healthy adults should aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training at least twice a week.
Eat a Healthy Whole Food Diet
Avoiding processed sugar-loaded foods and aiming to eat natural whole foods can help to decrease the risk of several disease and illnesses - breast cancer included. Keep it simple and aim to eat minimally processed foods, think fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats.
Are You at an Increased Risk?
Have more questions about your risk of developing breast cancer? Come prepared to your annual physical exam with questions to discuss with your physician and/or nurse. Remember to always be open and honest with your physician.
References
Breast cancer prevention (PDQ) ) — Patient Version. National Cancer Institute.
What can I do to reduce my risk of breast cancer? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Colditz GA. Cancer prevention.
Diet and physical activity: What's the cancer connection? American Cancer Society.
Physical activity and cancer. American Cancer Society.
Can I lower my risk of breast cancer? American Cancer Society.
Chen WY. Factors that modify breast cancer risk in women.