Breast Cancer and How to Reduce your Risk
October stands as a global symbol of breast cancer awareness, and we, at Northwest Family, are committed to playing our part in shedding light on this disease throughout the month. We strongly recommend you to check out the National Breast Cancer Foundation's website to expand your knowledge about breast cancer and explore opportunities to contribute.
Once you visit the National Breast Cancer Foundation's website, you'll find many ways to contribute to spreading the word this month. Besides advocating for the cause, it's crucial to know strategies to lower your chance of breast cancer development.
Guidelines to Lower Your Breast Cancer Risk
Curb Your Alcohol Intake - Scientific research exhibits a connection between breast cancer and alcohol consumption. Strive to limit your alcohol intake to a single drink each day – even less is preferable! Learn more about how alcohol may affect your overall health.
Say No to Smoking - Studies have identified a link between smoking and breast cancer. Not only that, smoking is associated with a multitude of other diseases such as lung disease/cancer, heart disease, oral cancer, and more. If you're a smoker, there's no better day than today to quit.
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle - Maintaining optimal weight and engaging in physical activities can significantly reduce your chances of developing cancer. For most healthy adults, at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activities or 75 minutes of intense aerobic activities per week, combined with strength training at least twice per week, is recommended.
Incorporate a Nutrient-Rich Diet - Swapping processed, sugar-filled foods for natural whole foods may help lower the risk of several disorders, including breast cancer. Stick to the basics, aim for minimally processed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. The Mediterranean is often a diet recommended by health professionals. It is a way of eating that minimizes processed foods and emphasizes plant-based foods. Learn more about the doctor recommended, closest to a one-size fits all approach to eating, the Mediterranean diet.
Assessing Your Level of Risk - Are you unsure about your risk factors for breast cancer? Come armed with questions during your annual physical exam to discuss with your medical provider. Always remember that transparency with your healthcare provider is key to your well-being.
The Importance of Regular Checkups
It is great to do everything in your power to lower your risk of breast cancer, we cannot stress the importance of your annual checkups. These visits are critical for the early detection of diseases when they are most treatable. Learn more about the importance of your regular visits in the detection of breast cancer.