Lifestyle Changes and Breast Cancer
EVERYDAY ACTIVITIES THAT ARE INCREASING YOUR RISK OF BREAST CANCER
Breast cancer mostly affects women, especially women who are older than 50 years of age. Certain factors like age, ethnicity, family history, etc are some of the risk factors of breast cancer. These factors are not under one’s control. However, certain activities, habits or choices that are under our control can also increase our risk of breast cancer.
- Late pregnancies- Having first pregnancy above the age of 30 years or not having biological children can elevate risk of breast cancer.
- Not breastfeeding: If you breastfed, your risk of developing breast cancer may be reduced, especially if you did it for a year or longer. Breast cancer reduction is just one of many benefits associated with breastfeeding.
- Alcohol consumption: Alcohol consumption increases the risk of such hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer. Alcohol consumption can increase levels of estrogen and other hormones. Alcohol can also lead to breast cancer due to the damage it causes to the DNA in cells.
- Smoking: Smoking is directly associated with the risk of the most common cancer, lung cancer. Smoking among women is also a risk factor for breast cancer. The risk for breast cancer may increase in younger women of premenopausal age if they smoke.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Inactivity is associated with obesity, being over-weight and more fat cells. Fat cells actively produce estrogens, and when the excess estrogens affect the breasts, it can lead to hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer.
- Unhealthy diet: Diet plays a very important role in determining your risk of almost all types of cancer.
- Being overweight or obese: After menopause most of a woman’s estrogen comes from fat tissue. Having more fat tissue after menopause can raise estrogen levels and increase your chance of getting breast cancer. Also, women who are overweight tend to have higher blood insulin levels. Higher insulin levels have been linked to some cancers, including breast cancer.
Be vigilant about breast cancer detection. If you notice any changes in your breasts, such as a new lump or skin changes, consult your doctor. Ask your doctor when to begin mammograms and other screenings based on your personal history.
Breast cancer mostly affects women, especially women who are older than 50 years of age. Dr. Ashish Goel is the best breast Cancer Surgeon in Noida.