Breast cancer is a pressing concern for women, but by acquiring the right knowledge and taking proactive steps, the associated risks can be minimized. To guide you towards enhanced health and overall well-being, we’ve enlisted the expertise of professionals. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Meghal Sanghavi, a Surgical Oncologist at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai Central, shared insightful tips:

Regular Exercise and Obesity Prevention: Integrate regular exercise into your routine to maintain a healthy weight, recognizing obesity as a acknowledged risk factor for breast cancer.

Timely Childbearing: Deliberate on early and timely childbearing, aiming for the first child before the age of 30, as studies suggest that giving birth at a younger age may diminish the risk of breast cancer.

Breastfeeding: Embrace breastfeeding, a practice linked with numerous health benefits for both mother and child. Strive to breastfeed for at least six months to promote enhanced breast health.

Avoid Long-Term Hormone Therapy: Exercise caution regarding prolonged continuous hormone therapy. Engage in discussions with your healthcare provider to explore alternatives and minimize potential risks.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle serves as the initial defense against breast cancer. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is crucial, as these behaviors are linked to an increased risk of the disease. Understanding family history is imperative, as it can inform decision-making and prompt proactive health measures. Encouraging the habit of regular self-breast examination after the age of 30 proves to be a cost-effective and quick method for early detection, enhancing the chances of successful treatment.

Recognizing age as a risk factor, annual mammograms are encouraged after the age of 40 in high-risk populations and every 18 months after the age of 45 in average-risk populations. Prompt action should be taken for any abnormalities, and consultation with a breast specialist for a clinical breast examination is advised. Understanding that not all lumps are cancerous, the majority of breast cancers are curable if detected early. Regular screenings and immediate action contribute to successful outcomes.

Dr. Preetam Jain, a Medical Oncologist at Bhatia Hospital in Mumbai, underscores the significance of a proactive and holistic approach to health in reducing the global concern of breast cancer. He recommends a comprehensive guide for women’s health tips:

Prioritize a healthy lifestyle, incorporating a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep for overall well-being.
Engage in physical activity for at least five days a week, with 20 minutes of exercise per day, promoting weight management and boosting overall health.
Manage stress effectively, utilizing techniques such as meditation or yoga to contribute to breast cancer prevention.

Ensure a minimum of 8 hours of sleep per day, crucial for the body’s repair and rejuvenation processes.

Steer clear of processed and unhealthy foods, opting for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Include high-protein sources in your diet for essential tissue repair and overall health.

Consume antioxidant-rich, low-calorie, and low-fat diets to combat free radicals and maintain a healthy weight.

Consider early marriage, as studies suggest it may have a protective effect against breast cancer.

Plan for children at a younger age, balancing career and family planning for breast cancer prevention.

Avoid late childbirths and nulliparity, which are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

Embrace breastfeeding, linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer and numerous health benefits for both mother and child.

Discuss alternative birth control options with your healthcare provider, particularly avoiding pills containing estrogen that may increase the risk of breast cancer.

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of breast cancer, considering a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 20 to 24 for a healthy weight range.

Conduct a self-breast examination every month, ideally on the 10th day of your menstrual cycle, promoting early detection of any changes.

Schedule a yearly mammography screening after the age of 40, as early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.
Consult with your oncologist to understand your family history of breast cancer, considering genetic counseling to assess individual risk factors.
Dr. Jain concludes by emphasizing the empowerment of individuals with knowledge and proactive steps towards breast cancer prevention, underlining the importance of incorporating holistic lifestyle changes and maintaining regular check-ups for overall well-being.