Breast cancer affects significant number of women all over the world. The aggressive research and improving medicare facilities have helped to formulate an effective plan to counter the development of the disease. Though, by following some simple steps and taking small precautions, one can effectively prevent the unwanted growth of cells.
1. Healthy eating habits
Indulge in health food. According to studies, their exist a positive role of the healthy eating habits in overall good health. Women whose intake of fat is less are at a minimum risk of developing the disease as compared to those who are over-indulgent in junk food and Trans fat rich diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant in fiber and act as anti-oxidants. A good portion of these in daily diet can help in eliminating toxins from the body and strengthening the normal metabolism of your body.
2. Reduce alcohol and tobacco consumption
Avoid alcohol and tobacco consumption in daily routine. These two act as the main culprits in the gradual development of the unwanted lumps in the body. Alcohol raises the estrogen levels in the body and renders one more susceptible to developing cancerous growth in the body. If total abstinence is not possible, then at least restricting alcohol consumption to one glass in a day should be the primary goal.
3. Watch your weight
Being over-weight does not directly makes one prone to cancerous development. But it surely does affect the metabolic rate and smooth functioning of other organ systems in the body. This may indirectly pose a threat to normal health and may act as one of the predisposing factors that cause cancer.
4. Physical activity
Leading a physically active life style not only helps to maintain the weight issue but also release ‘feel-good’ hormone in brain. So, inculcate an exercise schedule or jogging or any other form of physical activity in your daily routine. This will improve the BMR and help in better functioning of the organ systems of the body.
5. Minimize estrogen intake
High estrogen levels have a does have a link with cancerous growth in women. It is always best to take help from a gynecologist before taking up any medication which contains estrogen. Even birth controlling pills should also be started after consulting your doctor. Women who have undergone hormonal replacement therapy are more prone to develop unwanted cell growth due to estrogen factor only. They should follow a regular medical check-up to detect the disease in early stages only.
6. Vitamin supplements
Vitamin D has proved out to be effective against the cancerous growth. An intake of 200-600 IUs of vitamin D supplement daily has been officially recommended safe by health authorities. However, the dosage may differ from person to person and should be administered under medical supervision only.
7. Heredity factor
Women who have a family history of the disease are more prone to develop such growth. Always tell the appropriate history to the physician before taking any kinds of medical supplements.
8. Regular Medical check ups
A regular medical check up once in a year is recommended for everyone. This will not reduce the chances of unwanted cell growth but will definitely help to detect any abnormality developing in its initial stage and hence a better and effective management is possible. Breast self exam can be performed at home that covets no costlier investment. Mammograms however require hospital visit but should be strictly done as advised.
Breast self exam
It is one of the easiest and reliable methods of detecting any kind of cancerous or non cancerous growth in breast tissue. The systemic description of the procedure is written below-
- The manoeuvre should be performed in standing as well as lying position.
- While lying down, place a pillow beneath your right shoulder and also right arm behind the head. Then, gently massage your right breast with the help of three middle fingers of the left hand. Massage in a circular motion from inside out and check if there is any kind of abnormal growth or lump felt under the fingers.
- Repeat the same step for left breast.
- In standing position, place right arm behind the head and then examine for any lump. While performing the test in standing position also look out for any kind of unusual discharge from nipples.
- If any abnormal recent growth or lump is noticed or any discharge is evident, do consult a gynecologist.
- Repeat this test every month and follow the same pattern.
Mammogram
Yearly mammography should be done in women above 50 years of age. Women ranging from 35-50 years of age should get a mammogram done every second or third year. This will again help in identifying the disease at an early stage and an early treatment could reduce the number of dreaded complications.
