Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world, affecting millions of women around the world. While some risk factors for it are beyond control, making different lifestyle choices and getting it detected early can lower the chances of it taking a severe form. However, the misinformation spread about it is making the topic unnecessarily fearful and neglected. It thus becomes essential to separate fact from fiction.
In this blog, let us explore six myths about breast cancer and nine tips to help prevent breast cancer. If you have any more doubts, consider approaching the best cancer hospital in Faridabad to know its risk factors and detailed prevention tactics.
6 Myths About Breast Cancer
Many misconceptions about breast cancer can prevent people from taking the right precautions.
Here are 6 myths about breast cancer and the truth behind them:
- Only older women get breast cancer: The risk of it increases with age, and not just them, but young women and even men may be diagnosed with breast cancer.
- Wearing an underwire bra causes breast cancer: No scientific studies support this claim.
- Mammograms are dangerous due to radiation exposure: The radiation in mammograms is minimal and safe for screening purposes.
- A lump is always a sign of cancer: Many lumps are benign, but any unusual changes should be checked by a doctor.
- It is hereditary: Most cases of breast cancer have no family history of it.
- Men don't get breast cancer: Men can develop breast cancer too, though it is rare.
Tips to Prevent Breast Cancer
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight, especially after menopause, increases the risk of breast cancer. Excess fat levels raise oestrogen levels, which add to cancer growth. Maintaining a healthy weight by consuming a balanced diet and exercising regularly is important.
Focus on having whole foods, lean proteins and fibre-rich vegetables to prevent weight gain.
2. Stay Physically Active
Exercising regularly helps regulate hormones, boost immunity and reduce inflammation, and all three of these reduce the risk of breast cancer. 30 minutes of brisk walking, yoga or cycling is enough - intense exercises are not really needed. Training to improve strength and flexibility also helps improve overall health. Consistency is the key.
You can consider taking advice from the best cancer specialist in Faridabad for a fitness plan that suits your body.
3. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet
Your diet plays an important role in helping prevent breast cancer. A rich diet full of antioxidants, fibre and healthy fats lowers inflammation and regulates hormones. Also include leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains and omega-3-rich fish in your meals.
Avoid having processed foods, excess sugar and red meat as much as possible.
4. Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer by raising oestrogen levels and damaging DNA. Research has also shown that alcohol is dangerous, even when taken in small amounts. You should consider finding healthy alternatives to alcohol, like herbal tea or infused water.
Consult the best oncologist in Delhi NCR to help you understand how lifestyle changes can help prevent breast cancer.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking causes many types of cancer, including breast cancer. The toxin in it damages DNA and weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight cancer cells. The risk increases even with secondhand smoking. If quitting is overwhelming to you, seek support from healthcare professionals or take smoking cessation programmes.
You can lower your cancer risk and improve your heart and lung health by stopping smoking.
6. Get Regular Screenings
Early breast cancer detection saves lives. Get your mammography and clinical breast exams done regularly to detect breast cancer in the early stages when the treatment is bound to be most effective. Women over 40 years of age should get regular mammograms done, while younger women should stay alert about any unusual changes.
If you have a high risk due to family history, approach the best cancer specialist in Faridabad to get a personalised screening plan for timely detection and prevention.
7. Know Your Family History
While most breast cancer cases aren’t inherited, having a close relative with breast cancer increases your risk. Genetic testing helps check your chances of developing breast cancer and gives guidance for preventive steps. If you have a family history of breast cancer, doctors may recommend early screenings, lifestyle changes or even other medications to prevent it from occurring.
You should consult a cancer specialist in Greater Noida to understand the risk and take proactive measures for prevention.
8. Manage Stress and Mental Health
Chronic stress damages the immune system and increases breast cancer risk. Find ways to manage stress by practising yoga, meditation, deep breathing or therapy to improve your health overall as well.
By having a good social life and by engaging in activities that you enjoy, you reduce your stress levels.
9. Stay Informed and Spread Awareness
Knowledge is the most powerful tool to prevent cancer. Stay updated on the latest research, screening guidelines and lifestyle recommendations to make informed health choices. You should also encourage your friends and family to prioritise their health by recommending that they take regular check-ups.
Raise awareness about breast cancer treatment in Faridabad to empower others to take action early and reduce risks for the future.
Conclusion
Breast cancer can be prevented by spreading awareness and making proactive, health-conscious choices. Some risk factors are beyond our control, but simple lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of breast cancer significantly.
At Sarvodaya Hospital, Faridabad, expert oncologists use the latest techniques and technologies to fight breast cancer, from diagnosis to personalised care plans. They offer preventive consultations to assess risk factors that may impact you and guide you in creating a proactive health plan. Whether it is screenings, genetic counselling or comprehensive cancer treatment, Sarvodaya Cancer Institute ensures that you are receiving the best medical care at each step. Take charge of your health today by booking an appointment with the experienced specialists at Sarvodaya.
If you have concerns about your health, consult the best cancer specialist in Faridabad for expert advice.
