Breast cancer is a common form of cancer that affects women worldwide. Despite advances in medicine, many women still have to deal with the fear of cancer reoccurrence.
If you have battled breast cancer in the past, it is crucial to take steps that will minimize your risk and help avoid a reoccurrence. Here are some tips that can reduce your risk of breast cancer reoccurrence:.
Eat Healthily
Your diet can play a significant role in reducing your risk of breast cancer reoccurrence. You should aim to maintain a balanced and healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limit your intake of processed foods, red meats, and saturated fats.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Studies suggest that excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of breast cancer reoccurrence. Therefore, it is vital to limit the amount of alcohol you consume. The recommended daily alcohol limit for women is one drink per day.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Studies show that obesity is a risk factor for breast cancer reoccurrence in women. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a healthy weight. Focus on regular exercise and a balanced diet to keep your weight in check.
Quit Smoking
Smoking cigarettes can increase the risk of breast cancer reoccurrence. Women who quit smoking experience significant health benefits, including a lower risk of cancer reoccurrence.
If you’re struggling to quit smoking, you can seek professional help.
Manage Stress
Emotional stress can compromise the immune system, increase inflammation, and weaken the body’s response to cancer cells.
Managing stress through techniques such as meditation, yoga, and relaxation techniques can help reduce the risk of cancer reoccurrence.
Stay Active
Regular exercise boosts the immune system and helps fight off a variety of chronic illnesses, including cancer. Exercise also helps maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce the risk of breast cancer reoccurrence.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Undergo Regular Checkups
Regular checkups with a medical professional can help detect cancer reoccurrence early. It is essential to follow up with your oncologist and consider regular mammograms or MRI screenings.
Early detection of cancer reoccurrence leads to better treatment outcomes.
Get Enough Sleep
Adequate sleep is vital for overall health and wellness. Studies show that inadequate sleep can increase inflammation in the body, impair the immune system, and increase the risk of cancer reoccurrence.
Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night, and if you’re experiencing trouble sleeping, seek help from a medical professional.
Avoid Exposure to Environmental Toxins
Exposure to environmental toxins such as pollution, pesticides, and harmful chemicals can increase the risk of cancer reoccurrence.
Consider taking steps to reduce exposure, such as using natural cleaning products, and avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke.
Stay Positive and Connected
Maintaining positive relationships and social support networks can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Women who have a positive outlook and have strong social support networks tend to have better cancer treatment outcomes.
Stay connected with your loved ones, join a support group, or work with a therapist if needed.