Breast Cancer: Early Detection and Lifestyle Choices, by Dr. Niti Raizada

Cancer is a global concern, with a staggering 9.6 million cancer-related deaths worldwide. Shockingly, one in every six deaths globally is attributed to cancer, and of these, 2.01 million are breast cancer cases alone. Breast cancer ranks as one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths, alongside lung cancer. The good news is that breast cancer can often be cured when detected and treated early. In this blog, I'll shed light on how you can assess your risk for breast cancer and the lifestyle factors that can significantly impact your chances of developing this disease.

Assessing Risk:

One crucial step in breast cancer prevention is understanding risk factors. 

• If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, it's imperative to consult an oncologist and get your risk assessment done. But remember that only 10-15% patients may actually have hereditary breast cancer.
• One maybe advised to undergo a basic blood or saliva test to check for genetic mutations associated with hereditary breast cancer. These measures can provide valuable insights into your predisposition to the disease.

Lifestyle and Breast Cancer Risk:

Beyond genetic factors, lifestyle plays a crucial role in breast cancer risk. Approximately 30 to 50% of all cancer cases, including breast cancer, can be attributed to lifestyle choices. There are certain factors which you don’t have control on like age of menarche or menopause. Even factors like early child birth and breast feeding have association.

Let's delve into five key lifestyle factors that can influence risk:

Sedentary Lifestyle:

 In today's world, many of us spend extended hours in front of screens, whether it's a computer, camera, or television. Prolonged periods of physical inactivity contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, which can elevate risk of breast cancer.

Obesity: 

A high body mass index (BMI), especially at a younger age, increases the risk of breast cancer. Engaging in regular physical activity and adopting a balanced diet can help manage your weight and lower this risk.

Dietary Habits: 

A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables can elevate the risk of various cancers, including breast cancer. Incorporating these nutritious foods into your daily meals can have a protective effect. Also red meat has some association.

Tobacco Use: 

Tobacco consumption is a well-known risk factor for not only breast cancer but also many other types of cancer. While there has been a decline in tobacco use, it still contributes significantly to cancer incidence.

Alcohol Consumption:

Excessive alcohol consumption is another lifestyle factor that can increase your susceptibility to breast cancer. Reducing alcohol intake can be a proactive step in reducing this risk.

By addressing these five lifestyle factors and making positive changes, you can significantly lower your risk of breast cancer. Prevention and early detection are powerful tools in the fight against this disease. Remember that knowledge is key, and understanding your risk factors empowers you to take action for a healthier, cancer-free future.