• September 5, 2022

Breast Cancer Prevention: A Guide

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent forms of cancer among women. According to statistics shared by WHO, 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020 globally. The good news is that the disease can be detected early on, helping women receive the treatment they need to safely survive.

While some women are at a higher risk of getting breast cancer than others, there are a few things you can do to either prevent the onset of the disease or detect it much earlier.

Monitor Your Weight

Being overweight or obese can lead to a number of health conditions. While increased weight isn’t directly linked to breast cancer, it can put you at a higher risk of getting the disease as you age, especially after menopause.

Make it a point to maintain a healthy weight. This means incorporating healthy lifestyle changes such as eating a well-balanced diet, fixing your sleeping habits, and getting plenty of physical activity. Keeping an optimal weight helps reduce the risk of developing various medical conditions, including breast cancer.

Try to Breastfeed

Many women cannot or choose not to breastfeed for various reasons. However, research has shown that breastfeeding can help lower the risk of breast cancer, especially among younger women.

If possible, doctors recommend breastfeeding your child for at least one year to lower your chances of getting breast cancer, particularly if you have a family history or other risk factors associated with the disease.

Women holding pink ribbons

Get Frequent Breast Screenings

Most women get breast examinations done after they’ve noticed something unusual. While this can help in getting an early diagnosis, delaying your visit to a breast health specialist until you notice symptoms isn’t the best route to take.

Instead, you should opt for frequent breast examinations and screenings to ensure everything’s in order. Annual breast screenings can help you learn more about your body, become more aware of other risk factors and unusual symptoms to watch out for, and assess your options well in advance. Prevention is better than cure!

TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital encourages annual breast examinations. The TOPS Comprehensive Breast Center provides thorough breast screening and diagnostic services. We also provide individualized breast cancer treatments in Houston to increase the chances of recovery.

For more information, visit our website and find the right breast surgery specialist near you today.

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