Avril Harry,
RN, BSc Oncology Nursing
Pink Hibisåcus Breast Health Specialist
Breast health is a critical part of our overall health and well-being. The current statistic is that one in eight people will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Thus, we cannot overemphasize how important breast health awareness is for our women, both young and old alike, as well as the men.
There are things each and every person can do in an attempt to reduce the risk of developing breast health issues, one of which is breast cancer. This is especially so now that breast cancer is a disease that most women survive, thanks to earlier diagnosis and better treatment.
As discussed in our breast specialist Dr Rajen Rampaul’s article last week, we are also seeing a somewhat new phenomena—that of younger women being diagnosed. This fact further emphasises the importance of quality comprehensive breast screening.
There are three main risk factors which have nothing to do with lifestyle. They are age, being female, and having a significant family history. And only those people with the few genes closely associated with breast cancer can be fully aware of their own risk. At the end of the day, all cancers are predisposed to be genetic but they need other triggers in lifestyle and the environment.
For the most part, since we cannot always control our environment and we certainly cannot amend our genetics or age, it stands to reason that what we do and put into our body plays a role.
How healthy is your diet? Ask yourself the following questions:
• Does my daily meals consist of more plant-based foods as opposed to more processed meats and fried foods?
• Do I consume fast foods more than twice per week?
• Do I have a greater number of sugary juices as opposed to a daily intake of eight or more glasses of water per day?
• Do I drink in excess of two alcoholic beverages daily?
• Do I consume four to five portions of fruit daily?
A healthy diet and lifestyle are associated with overall good health. There are now studies which indicate that diet and lifestyle may play a role in averting breast cancer and its recurrence. The following are noteworthy lifestyle adjustments to consider:
• Consume a healthy diet with an emphasis on plant foods.
• Choose foods and beverages in amounts that help achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
• Limit consumption of processed meat and red meat.
• Eat at least 2.5 cups of vegetables and fruits each day.
• Choose whole grains instead of refined grain products.
• If you drink alcoholic beverages, limit consumption. Consume no more than one drink per day for women or two per day for men.
• Exercise regularly, it is recommended at least four hours a week
• Avoid chemicals than can increase your chances of developing cancer (carcinogens).
• Breastfeed your babies, once it is possible.
Remember that what we eat can make a difference. Now is a good time to get on the road to good breast health.