Steps Women Can Take to Avoid Breast Cancer

Posted by North Texas Cancer Center at Wise on July 21st, 2017

The American Cancer Society estimates more than 252,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in the coming year. More than 40,000 American women will die from the disease. While risks for this disease may be linked to factors beyond a woman’s control, a new study suggests that even those with strong familial ties to the disease can lower their chances of developing breast cancer. The measures that can make a difference center on a woman’s ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

A recent study found that nearly 30 percent of breast cancer cases in the United States could be prevented if women took four particular preventative measures. They are:

• Maintaining a healthy weight – Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet that is rich in vegetables, fruit, lean meats and low-fat foods is critical for maintaining health and weight. So, too, is getting adequate exercise on a regular basis. Obesity does play a strong role in the development of breast cancer, making this step an important one for women who want to lower their risks.
• Avoiding hormone use – The use of hormone therapy to help treat the symptoms of menopause has been linked to breast cancer risks in numerous studies. While the jury is still technically out on this topic, avoidance, researchers say, is the best policy.
• Limiting alcohol consumption – Numerous studies have found a strong correlation to alcohol use and the development of breast cancer. It is best to limit consumption or cut out alcohol use entirely.
• Quitting smoking – There is a strong, well-established link between breast cancer and smoking. Kicking this habit can dramatically lower risks while also helping women avoid a host of other related health concerns.

Researchers behind the study used data collected from more than 7,000 women with breast cancer. Information related to an estimated 20,000 women without breast cancer was also analyzed. The study found that even women with family and genetic links to breast cancer could lower their risks by paying attention to those four risk factors in particular. The analysis showed that high-risk women who addressed the four issues had roughly the same chance of developing breast cancer over a lifetime as the average white woman in the United States without a genetic predisposition.

All women are urged to lower their risks for breast cancer and other life-limiting conditions by taking steps to develop a healthy lifestyle. To find out more about personal risks for this disease, consult with a healthcare provider.

About Author

North Texas Cancer Center at Wise, a division of Choice Cancer Care, is now operating as the Cancer Center at Wise Regional and is one of the most renowned cancer treatment centers in Texas.