Breast cancer is a type of cancer that affects the breasts. It is the most common type of cancer in women and is the second leading cause of death due to cancer for females. Breast cancer is also very common in men, but it is much rarer.

The key to surviving breast cancer is detecting it early and taking the right steps to manage it. Here are some simple steps you can take to reduce your risk and decrease the mortality rate by 60%.

Understand the Risks and Symptoms

One of the most important steps you can take to decrease the risk of breast cancer is to be aware of the risks and symptoms. Breast cancer often does not have symptoms until it is in its advanced stages, making early detection extremely difficult.

Regular breast cancer screenings can increase your chances of detecting it early.

Some of the common symptoms of breast cancer include changes in the breast’s appearance, such as dimpling, a lump, or redness. Some people may experience nipple discharge, swelling, or pain.

If you notice any unusual changes in your breasts, you should consult with your doctor.

Stay Physically Active

Physical activity is essential for overall health and can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, women who are physically active have a lower risk of breast cancer than those who are inactive.

Studies have shown that moderate to vigorous physical activity can lower breast cancer risk in women of all ages and sizes.

Getting regular exercise can also help manage other health conditions that could increase your risk of breast cancer, such as obesity and high blood pressure. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week.

You can speak to a medical professional for specific guidelines on physical activity.

Healthy Eating and Drinking

What you eat and drink can have a significant impact on your overall health, including your risk of developing breast cancer.

A high-fat diet has been linked to breast cancer development, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can reduce the risk of developing the disease.

Also, alcohol and tobacco use can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. It is important to limit alcohol consumption and quit smoking if you are a smoker.

Manage Stress

High levels of stress can have a significant impact on your overall health, including increasing the risk of developing breast cancer. It is important to manage stress levels to maintain good health and reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

Some effective stress management techniques include meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or simply getting enough sleep. You can also talk to a mental health professional for specific stress management strategies.

Get Regular Checkups

Regular checkups play a vital role in detecting breast cancer early and reducing the risk of complications. Regular self-examinations at home can help you identify any changes in your breast’s size, shape, or texture.

You can consult your doctor for instructions on how to do a breast self-examination correctly.

You should also schedule regular breast cancer screenings with a medical professional. Women aged 50 and above should have a mammogram every two years, and those aged 40 to 49 can do it annually.

Women who are at high risk of developing breast cancer due to family history or other factors should speak with their doctor about their screening schedule.

Reduce Environmental Toxins

The environment can be a source of toxins that can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. It is important to reduce your exposure to such toxins to maintain good health and reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

Some of the common environmental toxins that can increase the risk of developing breast cancer include air pollution, radon, pesticides, and many more.

To reduce your exposure to environmental toxins, ensure that the air quality in your home or workspace is good, follow safety guidelines when handling garden chemicals, and install a radon detector in your home.

Support Research and Advocacy Efforts

Supporting breast cancer research and advocacy efforts is another great way to reduce the risk of breast cancer and improve treatment.

Breast cancer research helps identify the causes and contributing factors of breast cancer, which can lead to better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

You can support various charities that raise funds for breast cancer research and advocacy efforts, participate in awareness-raising activities, and talk to your elected representatives and medical professionals about how they can support breast cancer research.

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a severe disease that can significantly affect a person’s life and can even be fatal. However, by taking these simple steps, you can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer and increase your chances of detecting it early.

Make sure to consult with a medical professional to get more specific advice on how to reduce your breast cancer risk.