Home » 12 Ways to Prevent Breast Cancer

12 Ways to Prevent Breast Cancer

by Lily Morgen
662 views 4 minutes read
Prevent Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the leading cause of cancer death among Hispanic women. The good news is that there are things you can do to help prevent breast cancer.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing breast cancer. You can help keep your weight in check by exercising for at least 30 minutes most days of the week and eating a healthy diet.

2. Eat More Fruit, Vegetables, And Whole Grains

Eating a diet that’s high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help protect you from breast cancer. Because these foods are packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that may help keep your cells healthy.

3. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol increases your risk of developing breast cancer. If you do drink, limit yourself to no more than one drink per day.

4. Don’t Smoke

Smoking increases your risk of developing cancer, including breast cancer. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, quitting is the best way to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.

5. Eat Less Meat

Eating large amounts of meat, especially red meat, has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. You can lower your risk by eating less meat and more plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

6. Get Enough Exercise

Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, which in turn can help reduce your risk of breast cancer. aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Walking, biking, and swimming are all great exercises to try.

7. Avoid Exposure To Radiation And Environmental Pollutants

Too much exposure to radiation can increase your risk of developing breast cancer. You can limit your exposure by avoiding X-rays when they’re not medically necessary and being careful about the amount of time you spend in the sun. 

Similarly, exposure to certain environmental pollutants has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. To avoid these pollutants, stay away from areas where there is a lot of vehicle traffic or industrial activity.

8. Breastfeed

Breastfeeding has been linked with a reduced risk of developing breast cancer. If you’re able to breastfeed, do so for as long as possible.

9. Avoid Hormone Replacement Therapy

If you’re going through menopause, you may be tempted to use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to ease your symptoms. But HRT can slightly increase your breast cancer risk. If you opt for HRT, use the lowest dose for the shortest amount of time necessary.

10. Get Regular Mammograms

Mammograms are the best way to detect breast cancer early, when it’s most treatable. If you’re over the age of 50, be sure to get a mammogram every two years. You may need to get them more frequently if you have a family history of breast cancer.

11. Consider Taking Medication To Reduce Your Risk Of Breast Cancer

There are several medications that have been shown to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, including tamoxifen and raloxifene. These medications are typically only recommended for women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer. Your doctor can help you determine if you’re a good candidate for taking one of these medications.

12. Seek Medical Care If You Notice Any Changes In Your Breasts

If you notice any changes in your breasts, such as a lump or change in size or shape, be sure to see your doctor right away. These changes could be signs of breast cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

Final Thought

With the above tips, hope you can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer. Keep in mind that the best way to prevent breast cancer is to catch it early. So be sure to get regular mammograms and see your doctor if you notice any changes in your breasts.

You may also like

Leave a Comment