What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and the second leading cause of cancer death in women. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop breast cancer at some point in their lives.
There are many different types of breast cancer, but the most common type is ductal carcinoma, which starts in the milk ducts and accounts for about 80% of all cases. Other types of breast cancer include lobular carcinoma, which starts in the milk-producing lobules; inflammatory breast cancer, which causes the breast to appear red and inflamed; and Paget’s disease of the nipple, which affects the skin around the nipple.
Most breast cancers are found through screening mammograms before they cause any symptoms. However, some breast cancers can develop into larger tumors that may cause pain, a lump or mass in the breast, changes in the appearance of the breast, discharge from the nipple, or other symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor so that they can determine whether or not you have breast cancer.
Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent or reduce your risk of developing breast cancer. Some risk factors for breast cancer (such as family history or genetic predisposition) cannot be changed, but there are lifestyle choices you can make that can make a big difference. Here are some habits of healthy breasts that can help prevent cancer:
Breast Cancer Treatment
Breast cancer treatment options
The most common breast cancer treatment options are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Your doctor will recommend the best course of treatment based on the type and stage of your cancer, as well as your overall health.
Surgery is the most common treatment for breast cancer. There are several types of breast cancer surgery, including:
• Lumpectomy: This is a relatively minor surgical procedure in which only the tumor is removed, along with a small margin of healthy tissue around it.
• Mastectomy: This is a more aggressive surgical procedure in which the entire breast is removed. In some cases, the lymph nodes under the arm may also be removed.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy waves to kill cancer cells. It can be given externally, from a machine outside the body, or internally, through implants placed directly into the tumor site. Radiation therapy is often used after lumpectomy to help reduce the risk of recurrence. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It can be given intravenously or orally. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery or radiation therapy.
Common Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
There are many different risk factors for developing breast cancer, but some are more common than others. Some of the most common risk factors include:
-Being overweight or obese
-Having a family history of breast cancer
-Beginning menstruation at an early age
-Having children later in life or not at all
-Using hormone replacement therapy during menopause
-Drinking alcohol regularly
While you can’t do anything about some of these risk factors (like your family history), there are lifestyle changes you can make to help lower your risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting your alcohol intake can all help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.
Rank | Country | Number | ASR/100,000 |
World | 2,261,419 | 47.8 | |
1 | Belgium | 11,734 | 113.2 |
2 | The Netherlands | 15,725 | 100.9 |
3 | Luxembourg | 497 | 99.8 |
4 | France | 58,083 | 99.1 |
5 | France, New Caledonia | 185 | 99.0 |
6 | Denmark | 5,083 | 98.4 |
7 | Australia | 19,617 | 96.0 |
8 | New Zealand | 3,660 | 93.0 |
9 | Finland | 5,228 | 92.4 |
10 | US | 253,465 | 90.3 |
Prevention of Breast Cancer
There are many things women can do to prevent breast cancer. Some lifestyle changes can make a big difference, while others may have a smaller impact. But every little bit counts when it comes to protecting your breasts and keeping them healthy.
Here are some habits of healthy breasts that can help prevent cancer:
- Wear sunscreen on your chest and décolletage when spending time outdoors. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the DNA in skin cells and contribute to the development of cancer.
- Quit smoking or don’t start. Tobacco use is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer.
- Limit alcohol consumption. Drinking alcohol increases the levels of certain hormones in the body that can increase the risk of breast cancer.
- Maintain a healthy weight and get regular exercise. Being overweight or obese is linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer. Exercise helps to keep your weight in check and also has other benefits for overall health.
- Breastfeed, if possible. Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of developing breast cancer than women who don’t breastfeed, possibly because breastfeeding reduces exposure to hormones that can promote cancer growth.
7 Habits of Healthy Breasts That Prevent Cancer
It’s no secret that leading a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk of developing cancer. But did you know that there are specific things you can do to keep your breasts healthy and cancer-free? Here are some Habits of Healthy Breasts That Prevent Cancer:
- Wear sunscreen. Just like the rest of your skin, your breasts are susceptible to damage from UV rays. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can help protect your skin from sun damage, which can lead to skin cancer.
- Don’t smoke. Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your health, and it increases your risk of developing breast cancer. If you don’t smoke, don’t start. If you do smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your health.
- Limit alcohol intake. Drinking too much alcohol increases your risk of developing breast cancer. If you drink alcohol, limit yourself to no more than one drink per day.
- Get regular exercise. Exercise is not only good for overall health, but it also helps reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
- Eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains has been shown to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. So eat plenty of these healthy foods and limit processed and high-fat foods.
- Wearing a well-fitting bra: A well-fitting bra supports the breasts and helps to prevent sagging and other issues. It also helps to evenly distribute the weight of the breast, which can reduce strain on the connective tissue.
- Eating a healthy diet: A diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to protect against breast cancer. Additionally, limiting alcohol consumption and maintaining a healthy body weight can also reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.