Breast Cancer is one of the most common cancers, and women are particularly susceptible to it. We have all, at some point or the other, heard about checking our breasts for lumps, but often that is all we hear.
Being a deadly condition found in so many women, breast cancer needs more awareness than it gets. Misinformation and a lack of awareness could be the cause of another case of cancer that goes unnoticed or untreated.
Here are some ways in which you can keep yourself safe and reduce your risk of getting breast cancer.
1. Mammograms Are Important
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Mammograms are an x-ray of the breasts used to screen for breast cancer. Usually, a mammogram can detect breast cancer well before it shows physical signs and symptoms like lumps. Women, especially over the age of 40, should be getting regular mammograms every one to two years, just to be safe.
2. It’s All About Self-Examination & Constant Vigilance
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Regular self-examinations are critical to good breast health and early detection of cancer. When used in combination with regular clinical exams and ultrasounds, it becomes an important screening tool. Marks & Spencers has also released a new bra strap that will remind women about staying aware. ‘Straps That Remind’ is a unique initiative with transparent straps that are printed with thermochromic ink. The message that appears on the clear straps when you take the bra off reminds women to take regular check-ups! These straps also come with leaflets from the Women’s Cancer Initiative.
3. Reduce Hormone Therapy & Start Breastfeeding
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Research has found that combination hormone therapy can be detrimental to breast health and may increase the risk of breast cancer. If possible, you should try to use non-hormonal therapies and medication for postmenopausal symptoms instead of hormone therapy. It has also been noticed that breastfeeding may have a big role in breast cancer prevention. Not only is it good for your health, but it is also good for your baby!
4. Limit Carcinogens And Shake Up Your Lifestyle
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As is said about most cancers, lifestyle may have a big impact on prevention and cure. You should limit your usage of carcinogens. It is advised that you do not binge on alcohol or consume too many cigarettes. One drink per day is the advised amount of alcohol for women as even small amounts could become a cause for concern. Moderation is key.
5. Stay Healthy & Be Active
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Lifestyle also means physical health. Doctors suggest that women should stay active, maintain a healthy weight for their body type, and exercise regularly to keep breast cancer at bay. You should start by eating healthy and including nutrients in your diet. You can then, slowly over time, start being physically active as well, to maintain your metabolism. It is advised that you get at least four hours of exercise in a week!
Indian women are not well informed about breast cancer and the fact that it is often treatable if diagnosed in an early stage. This can only be done if one remains vigilant and knows what to look out for.
Learning about this particular type of cancer is critically important and should be a staple of the education system, if not every household.
Stay aware, stay safe, and reduce your risk of being at risk by remaining vigilant!
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