INTRODUCTION
Why prevention matters
The most common cancer among women globally is breast cancer. There is no one cause of breast cancer but lifelong complex interactions between different elements of risk in a woman's life. Certain factors influencing your lifetime risk of breast cancer are beyond your control, i.e., non-modifiable. Such as Female gender, Genetics, family history, race, ethnicity, breast density, reproductive milestones. Breast cancer prevention matters, it helps reduce the risk of developing the disease, saves lives, and decreases healthcare costs. Early detection and lifestyle changes can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
However, you can work on other risk factors of breast cancer which are in your control. They are modifiable risk factors such as diet, physical activity and avoiding or limiting your exposure to breast cancer causing agents and hormonal medications.
MedBound Times connected with the specialist Dr. Anushree Vartak, Breast Surgeon & Oncologist for her insights on breast cancer prevention.
Being Breast Aware consists of prioritizing your breast health and knowing how to screen your breasts as per your age as well as lifetime risk (calculated with help of doctors). Lastly, becoming aware of risk factors for breast cancer and how to reduce your risk by modifying certain aspects of your life by using research proven strategies.Dr Anushree Vartak, Senior Consultant Breast Surgical Oncology and Oncoplastic Surgery, Yashoda Superspeciality Hospital & Cancer Institutes, Sanjay Nagar, Ghaziabad
KEY STRATEGIES
Healthy lifestyle
○ Diet and nutrition:
A healthy diet reduces the risk of many illnesses, including breast cancer. A diet low in fruits and vegetables increases the risk of breast cancer. Vegetables (green, leafy), fruits, and whole grains are sources of fiber. Avoid the intake of red meat, or moderate it. Plants-based foods help in reducing the risk of breast cancer.
○ Exercise:
Physical activity is important for health. At least 30 minutes of exercise daily is a must.
○ Weight management:
Try to maintain a healthy weight. Obesity increases the risk of breast cancer, especially after menopause.
Limiting exposure to cancer-causing agents
○ Alcohol:
Avoid the intake of alcohol. Zero consumption is best to reduce the risks.
○ Smoking:
Avoid smoking. It's associated with many breast diseases and not just breast cancer.
Managing Risk because of reproductive Hormones
○ Choice of Breastfeeding:
If you're able to breastfeed for more than a year, then it reduces the risks of post-pregnancy breast cancer a little. During breastfeeding, reduced hormone exposure and biological changes in breast tissues help in prevention.
○ Hormonal medicines:
Combined Oral contraceptive pills or Hormone replacement therapy given after menopause increases the risks of breast cancer in women. Use it cautiously and under the supervision of a doctor. Its risk can come down after five years. There are several factors to consider. Such as family history, and lifestyle-related risk.
Environmental and radiation factors
○ Radiation:
Exposure to radiotherapy for treatment of childhood cancers increases the risk of breast cancer
○ Pollutants:
Air pollution has recently been linked with breast cancer.
○ Certain Chemicals like phthalates and parabens.
○ Artificial Light at night
○ Genetic counseling and testing:
If you have a significant family history of breast cancer, genetic counseling is a must-do thing. It helps to understand their specific genetic risks, enabling testing, personalized preventive medical interventions and high-intensity early detection/ surveillance strategies.
○ Eat well and stay active.
○ Limit your alcohol consumption and avoid smoking.
○ Consider breastfeeding and hormone therapy risks.
○ Minimize your radiation and pollutants exposure.
○ Follow screening guidelines.
○ Discuss preventive options with your doctor if high risk.