Ingrid Bergman. Bette Davis. Linda McCartney. They’re not just female celebrities; they’re famous faces who passed away due to breast cancer. As the second leading cause of cancer death among women, it does not distinguish between race, religion, or nationality. Despite the problems brought by breast cancer, there are a number of health action plans you can follow to minimize the risk of developing the disease.
Get Screened for Breast Cancer
The prognosis is often excellent when doctors catch breast cancer in its early stages. In fact, women’s health clinics like womensaidcenter.com believe that early detection through screening, along with the corresponding treatment, can prevent malignant cancer cells from metastasizing to the other parts of the body.
In screening for breast cancer, the most commonly used method is mammography. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends women ages 50 to 74 to undergo mammography every two years. Women with a higher risk, however, may opt to begin their screening much earlier and may even request for an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) as well.
Stay Active with Exercise
Exercise can protect you from breast cancer in at least two ways. First, it helps maintain weight. A study done by the American Cancer Society revealed that women were more likely to develop breast cancer if they gained 21 to 30 pounds since age 18. The fat in the body produces estrogen, a hormone that stimulates cell overgrowth and breast cancer. Second, exercise modifies the estrogen metabolism by improving the ratio of “good” to “bad” estrogen hormones. Research shows that the risk of breast cancer decreases when the ratio is greater. So, put on your fitness shoes and get moving!
Consume the Right Food every Day
When choosing the right food, the American Cancer Society encourages people to choose whole grains, fruits, and vegetables over red meats, processed food, and alcohol. Some fruits and vegetables have carotenoids which cut the risk of bad estrogen production. Thus, eat the right foods and eat them daily.
These tips can reduce breast cancer risk and help you live a vibrant, balanced life. It is possible to take charge of the future of your health and keep cancer away when you take the necessary steps to maintain your well-being.
