Things You Can Do to Prevent Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of deaths from cancer in the United States. Every year around 11,000 women die and 49,000 new cases are diagnosed. However, there are things you can do to prevent breast cancer so that your risk is lowered.

Things You Can Do to Prevent Breast Cancer:

• Diet: If you improve your diet, you can dramatically reduce the risk of getting breast cancer. Avoid foods like pastries, pizzas, fried foods. Instead start eating more fresh fruits and vegetables. In addition, cut down on alcohol, tea, coffee and nicotine.
• Exercise: Make it a point to exercise at least for 30 minutes a day. This will reduce the chances of developing present by 30 to 40 percent. Having a healthy body will allow it to fight not just against cancer but other infections and diseases.
• Pregnancy: Doctors advocate women having their first child by the age of 25. Although there is no concrete evidence but doctors say that women who have children early reduce their chances of getting breast cancer significantly compared to women who have their first child in their 30s.
• Breastfeed your baby for at least 6 months: The risk of developing cancer reduces if you breastfeed your child for at least 6 months.

Remember, breast cancer can be treated and cured if detected early. Doctors lay stress on this constantly. Women should go for regular breast examination after the age of 30; or they can do it themselves at home. There are many websites that teach women how self-examination can be done. However, as the age-old adage goes, prevention is better than cure. That is why you should take heed and work towards preventing breast cancer. After all, it is easier and cheaper than breast cancer treatment!