Around 70,000 women develop breast cancer in Germany every year. With a few small changes in everyday life and lifestyle, it should be possible to prevent breast cancer and reduce the risk of disease.
Nobody can prevent cancers like breast cancer ( breast cancer ). Too many different factors are involved in its development. But with a healthy lifestyle, you can significantly reduce the risk of illness.
On the occasion of the increase in cancer, the EU commissioned cancer experts as early as the 1980s to create a kind of guide to cancer prevention for all citizens. In the meantime, it has become “12 rules for cancer prevention”, which can be viewed at the World Health Organization (WHO), among others. The aim of the so-called European Code of Cancer Prevention is that everyone can keep their own risk of developing cancer as low as possible.
Breast cancer: is there a family history?
The fear of breast cancer runs deep, especially among women. Hence, it is more important that all women are familiar with their bodies in order to be able to do so changes to recognize early.
One of the most important risk factors for breast cancer lies in the genes. If your mother, grandma, or aunt has breast cancer, your risk is also higher. Other factors include a very early first menstrual period, obesity, late pregnancies, or hormone therapy during menopause. Smokers also have a higher risk of breast cancer, as indicated by the onco internet portal of the German Cancer Society.
5 tips you can use to prevent breast cancer
1. Healthy eating
Pay attention to a healthy one nutrition. Eat multiple servings of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and dairy products every day. This provides you with all the important minerals and vitamins and strengthens your immune system. Also, eat little foods rich in sugar and fat.
2. Sufficient exercise
If you also exercise regularly and do sports, your weight stays within the normal range. An important step in the fight against breast cancer, because obesity is one of the risk factors. Exercise is also fun and helps you relax.
3. Smoking & alcohol consumption
Since smoking increases the risk of breast cancer, it is only logical that you should quit cigarettes if you want to prevent breast cancer. The same applies to alcohol: Only drink rarely and in moderation. Heavy alcohol consumption favors the development of cancer.
4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding
The timing of pregnancy and breastfeeding can influence the risk of breast cancer. Studies have shown that women who breastfeed their children are less likely to develop breast cancer. Since breastfeeding is also great for the baby’s immune system, you should try it if possible. However, mothers shouldn’t let themselves be pressured about breastfeeding, after all there are some factors that make breastfeeding their own baby difficult or even impossible.
5. Refrain from hormones
Hormone therapy is often prescribed for severe menopausal symptoms. If possible, get through hot flashes and the like naturally. The hormones increase the risk of breast cancer.
Early detection is a very important step in the fight against breast cancer. Go to your gynecologist for a check-up at least once a year. Also, feel your chest yourself every month. Instructions can be found here: Palpate your chest
Important note: The content of the article is for information only and is not a substitute for a doctor’s diagnosis. If you are unsure, have urgent questions or have complaints, you should contact your doctor.