Breast Cancer Prevention: How to Reduce Your Risk
Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in Singapore. While some risk factors like genetics cannot be changed, many lifestyle habits and preventive measures can significantly lower your chances of developing breast cancer. Understanding and adopting effective prevention strategies is crucial for supporting women’s health and overall breast health in Singapore.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight, especially after menopause, can increase breast cancer risk. Aim to maintain a healthy body weight by combining a balanced diet and regular physical activity. The Health Promotion Board in Singapore recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly to help control weight and improve breast health.
Stay Physically Active
Regular exercise lowers breast cancer risk by helping regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week are ideal. Even short bursts of activity throughout the day contribute to your goal.
Eat a Healthy, Balanced Diet
A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins supports cancer prevention. Limit processed and red meats, saturated fats, and reduce alcohol intake, as studies show even moderate alcohol consumption increases risk. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods for optimal breast health.
Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Both smoking and alcohol have been linked to higher breast cancer risks. Quitting smoking and minimizing alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day can reduce this risk significantly.
Breastfeed If Possible
Breastfeeding has a protective effect, lowering the risk of breast cancer, particularly for pre-menopausal women. The longer you breastfeed, the greater the benefit.
Limit Hormone Therapy Use
Long-term hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause can increase breast cancer risk. Discuss alternative treatment options for menopausal symptoms with your healthcare provider and use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary.
Know Your Family History
Being aware of your family’s cancer history enables early screening and preventive measures. Women with close relatives who have breast or ovarian cancer should discuss earlier or more frequent mammogram screenings with their doctors.
Regular Breast Cancer Screening
Early detection through regular cancer screening Singapore programs, especially mammograms starting at age 40 or 50, is vital. Mammograms can detect changes before symptoms appear, improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.
By incorporating these cancer prevention tips into your lifestyle and staying vigilant with regular screenings, you can actively protect your breast health. Singapore offers numerous support programs and resources to help women maintain health and reduce breast cancer risk, emphasizing prevention as the cornerstone of effective breast cancer control.
Disclaimer: The content for this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your oncologist with any questions regarding a medical condition. Do not disregard medical advice or delay seeking it based on information from this site.