BREAST CANCER AND HOW TO PREVENT IT
Breast cancer is one of the most common diseases affecting women worldwide. After lung cancer, breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women.
Breast cancer is one of the most common diseases affecting women worldwide. After lung cancer, breast cancer is the leading cause of death in women.
This fact demonstrates the importance of awareness to recognize, prevent, and detect breast cancer as early as possible.
Although frightening and hair-raising, breast cancer is not a disease that comes without warning.
Many factors can trigger the development of this cancer, ranging from family genetics, environmental influences, to unhealthy lifestyles. Therefore, the first step women must take is to know themselves.
This fact demonstrates the importance of awareness to recognize, prevent, and detect breast cancer as early as possible.
Although frightening and hair-raising, breast cancer is not a disease that comes without warning.
Many factors can trigger the development of this cancer, ranging from family genetics, environmental influences, to unhealthy lifestyles. Therefore, the first step women must take is to know themselves.
To do this, regularly perform breast self-exams by feeling and paying attention to changes in the breasts.
This simple step can help detect breast cancer early before it reaches an advanced stage.
How to prevent breast cancer
In addition to the steps mentioned above, several other practical steps to prevent this cancer are:1. Exercise 30 minutes every day
Exercise not only keeps the body fit and maintains a healthy weight, but it is also effective in reducing the risk of breast cancer.Physical activity helps the body regulate estrogen levels, which play a role in the growth of breast cancer cells.
Just 30 minutes a day for brisk walking, cycling, or swimming can make a big difference in your health.
2. Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke
Chemicals in cigarettes can damage body tissue and increase the risk of various cancers, including breast cancer.Even passive smokers who are frequently exposed to secondhand smoke are at higher risk. Therefore, the best preventative measure is to quit smoking and protect yourself from exposure to secondhand smoke.
A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been shown to help reduce the risk of breast cancer. So, make sure every plate of food is full of natural colors from fresh ingredients.
Consuming soy-based foods such as tofu, tempeh, or soy milk can help reduce the risk of breast cancer and maintain stable cholesterol levels.
Therefore, I recommend limiting or completely eliminating alcohol as the most practical cancer prevention measure.
You need to be more vigilant. Consult a doctor or genetic counselor to understand your personal risk and take appropriate preventative measures.
The high fat, salt, and synthetic preservatives in processed meats can also worsen the condition. Choose plant-based protein sources or white meats such as chicken and fish.
This therapy is known as chemoprevention and should only be performed under the supervision of a specialist.
3. Eat fruits and vegetables every day
Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants that can fight free radicals, the main source of cell damage and genetic mutations.A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables has been shown to help reduce the risk of breast cancer. So, make sure every plate of food is full of natural colors from fresh ingredients.
4. Take advantage of soy
Research over the past two decades has shown that soy contains isoflavones, compounds that can protect the body from the negative effects of excess estrogen.Consuming soy-based foods such as tofu, tempeh, or soy milk can help reduce the risk of breast cancer and maintain stable cholesterol levels.
5. Get enough fiber
Fiber is not only good for digestion but also plays an important role in detoxifying the body. Fiber-rich foods such as whole grains and nuts help bind toxins in the body that can potentially trigger cancer.6. Limit alcohol consumption
Alcohol is known to increase estrogen levels and damage the DNA of human cells. Research shows that women who regularly consume alcohol three times a week have a 15% higher risk of developing cancer than those who don't.Therefore, I recommend limiting or completely eliminating alcohol as the most practical cancer prevention measure.
7. Reduce sugar and bad fat intake
Excessive sugar consumption can trigger inflammation and accelerate the growth of abnormal cells. Meanwhile, trans fats, often found in fried foods, pastries, and fast food, have the potential to trigger breast cancer. Therefore, choose healthy fats from avocados, nuts, or olive oil.8. Know your family history
Genetics plays a major role in the risk of developing cancer in women. If your mother, sister, or other family member has had breast cancer,You need to be more vigilant. Consult a doctor or genetic counselor to understand your personal risk and take appropriate preventative measures.
9. Limit red meat consumption
Several studies have found a link between consuming overcooked red meat and an increased risk of cancer.The high fat, salt, and synthetic preservatives in processed meats can also worsen the condition. Choose plant-based protein sources or white meats such as chicken and fish.
10. Consider preventive medication
For women at high risk, certain medications such as tamoxifen or raloxifene can help reduce the risk of developing this cancer.This therapy is known as chemoprevention and should only be performed under the supervision of a specialist.
11. Preventive surgery
In certain cases, such as women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, breast removal surgery (prophylactic mastectomy) can reduce the risk of cancer spread by up to 95%. Although it may sound extreme, many women consider taking this step to cure their cancer.Conclusion
Breast cancer is not only a medical problem but also a challenge to self-awareness and healthy living.By understanding the causes and symptoms of breast cancer, every woman can minimize her risk of breast cancer. Prevention is always better than cure, and small steps today could save lives.
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HEALTH