Preventing Breast Cancer

October is the official month for Breast Cancer Awareness.  According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer.  Prevention is key to reducing your risk of developing this devastating disease.  Some risk factors, such as family history, can’t be changed, but breast cancer prevention actually starts with healthy habits.  Here are some lifestyle changes that you can take toward breast cancer prevention.

1. Maintain a healthy body weight: weight gain in midlife as well as having a body mass index above 25 have been shown to significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
2. Limit your alcohol consumption: the more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of developing breast cancer.  Try to limit yourself.
3. Don’t smoke: long-term smoking is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, especially in premenopausal women.
4. Avoid exposure to radiation and environmental pollution: high doses of radiation such as those used for medical imaging have been linked to breast cancer risk, so limit your exposure by having test only when absolutely necessary.  Research also suggests a link between breast cancer and exposure to chemicals found in gasoline fumes, vehicle exhaust and parabens found in some shampoos, lotions, deodorant, and makeup.
5. Exercise regularly: research shows that physical activity can reduce overall breast cancer risk by 10-30 percent!  Even a simple 30-minute walk five days a week can be effective.
6. Keep a healthy diet: a healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, which is a key factor in breast cancer prevention.  Eat a diet high in vegetables and fruits and low in refined sugar and carbohydrates.  Choose lean proteins and whole grains and avoid processed foods while limiting your intake of red meat.   It’s also important to consume an adequate amount of Omega-3 fats.

Prevention is the most powerful weapon you have against breast cancer!  Keeping a positive mental outlook and embracing an overall healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk of breast cancer as well as many other diseases so you can enjoy a long fulfilling life.

If you have any questions or need anything... Call your Elkhorn Chiropractor today!