Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer which can affect both men and women. While the disease is dreaded, there are a lot of things you can do in order to prevent it nowadays.
Here are some things you can do to reduce your chances of getting breast cancer, according to Health Digezt.
1.Know your family history.
Approximately 10% of breast cancer can be inherited. This is why it’s important to know your family history and inform your physician about it. You may also take note of other notable diseases in both sides of your family such as other types of cancer, mental illness, heart disease and diabetes.
2. Reduce alcohol consumption.
Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol is linked to various diseases including breast cancer and liver problems. While it’s extremely hard to completely cut off alcohol from your system, it might be easier to limit your alcohol consumption.
3. Have regular exercise.
Aside from helping you achieve your dream figure, exercising can prevent numerous diseases. Keep in mind that women who gained 20 to 30 pounds through since age 18 are prone to developing breast cancer compared to those who maintained their weight or gained a maximum of 5 pounds. This is because estrogen, which have higher levels when you have more fat in your body, stimulate growth of breast cancer cells.
4. Don’t smoke.
Aside from lung cancer, smoking can also lead to breast cancer. A study has shown that women are 40% more likely to develop breast cancer if they consume a pack of cigarette a week.
5. Always check yourself.
You can reduce your risk for cancer as well as other diseases if you visit your doctor for regular check-ups as well as perform self-checks. Always be vigilant and do regular breast exams to check if you have lumps or discoloration on your skin. Take screenings suited with your family and medical history.
6. Know your breast density.
Breast density, a measure that describes the proportion of the different tissues that make up a woman’s breast, reveals information if you are likely to have breast cancer. Those with high breast density were found to be four or five times more likely to get breast dancer compared with women with low breast density.