Breast cancer continues to be one of the most common cancers among women worldwide. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in women in 2021 alone.

While the statistics may seem daunting, the good news is that there are things women can do to increase their chances of surviving breast cancer. Here are the 15 best practices for improving breast cancer survival:.

1. Get regular mammograms

The earlier breast cancer is detected, the easier it is to treat and the better the chance of survival. Regular mammograms are essential for detecting breast cancer in its early stages, before any symptoms appear.

Women should talk to their doctors about when to start getting mammograms and how frequently to get them based on their age, family history, and other factors.

2. Perform regular breast self-exams

In addition to mammograms, breast self-exams can help women detect any changes or abnormalities in their breasts. Women should perform a breast self-exam once a month and report any changes to their doctor.

3. Seek genetic counseling and testing

Women who have a family history of breast cancer may be at higher risk for developing the disease.

Genetic counseling and testing can help determine whether a woman carries genetic mutations that increase her risk of breast cancer, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2. If genetic testing reveals a high risk, women can take steps to manage their risk or prevent breast cancer altogether, such as undergoing prophylactic mastectomies or starting cancer-prevention medications.

4. Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight or obese can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer, as well as decrease her chances of surviving it.

Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help prevent breast cancer and improve survival rates for women who are diagnosed with the disease.

5. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise has been shown to improve breast cancer outcomes and reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence. Women should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling.

6. Eat a healthy diet

A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce the risk of breast cancer and improve survival rates.

Women should avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of red meat, which have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

7. Limit alcohol consumption

Drinking alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Women should limit their alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day.

8. Quit smoking

Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer. Women who smoke should quit as soon as possible to improve their breast cancer outcomes.

9. Consider breast cancer risk-reducing medications

For women who have a high risk of developing breast cancer, medications such as tamoxifen or raloxifene can help reduce the risk of the disease. Women should talk to their doctor about whether these medications are right for them.

10. Discuss breast cancer screening and prevention options with a doctor

Women should talk to their doctor about their risk of developing breast cancer and the best screening and prevention options for them. This can include regular mammograms, breast MRIs, and risk-reducing medications.

11. Stay informed about breast cancer research and new treatments

Breast cancer research is constantly evolving, and new treatments and technologies are being developed all the time.

Women should stay informed about the latest research and talk to their doctor about any new treatments or technologies that may be available to them.

12. Seek emotional support

A breast cancer diagnosis can be emotionally overwhelming, and many women may need emotional support to cope with the challenges of the disease.

Women should seek support from friends, family, or a therapist, and consider joining a breast cancer support group.

13. Take care of overall health

Good overall health can improve breast cancer outcomes. Women should take care of their physical and emotional health, including getting enough sleep, managing stress, and treating any existing health conditions.

14. Follow treatment recommendations

If a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, following treatment recommendations can improve her chances of survival. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy.

Women should talk to their doctor about the best treatment plan for them.

15. Attend follow-up appointments

After completing breast cancer treatment, women should attend regular follow-up appointments with their doctor to monitor their health and detect any signs of recurrence.

Women should also continue to perform regular breast self-exams and report any changes to their doctor.

Conclusion

While breast cancer can be a daunting diagnosis, women can take steps to increase their chances of surviving the disease.

By getting regular mammograms, performing breast self-exams, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, seeking emotional support, and following treatment recommendations, women can improve their breast cancer outcomes and live long, healthy lives.