With the change of people’s lifestyle, breast cancer has become the most dangerous enemy of women’s health. Therefore, early prevention and healthy lifestyle habits are essential. In October, International Breast Cancer Awareness Month, MSNBC News published 8 tips from American oncologists for women to help them stay away from breast cancer. Weight control, especially avoiding obesity around the waist: For women of any age, being overweight and obese can be a potential cancer risk, especially for women who have passed menopause. Scientific studies show that post-menopausal obesity increases the risk of breast cancer by 50%. And the higher the weight, the greater the risk. It is worth reminding that the more fat accumulation in the waist, the higher the risk. Eat more soy products: Eating soybeans and their products regularly will reduce the risk of breast cancer. A survey of 73,000 women showed that women who regularly eat soy and its products have a 60% lower risk of breast cancer than those who do not eat it regularly. You can’t go wrong with fruits and vegetables: The carotenoids in vegetables and fruits can be very good at preventing cancer. Even for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, eating more vegetables and fruits will prolong survival and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence or getting a second tumor. Drink green tea regularly: A survey of 2,000 Chinese women found that women who drank green tea regularly had a 40% lower chance of developing breast cancer.
Consistently exercise for 30 minutes a day: Women who are physically active have a 20% lower risk of breast cancer than women who rarely exercise. However, it is important to note that exercise should be kept at a certain intensity, but it does not have to be overly strenuous. Experts recommend subtracting one’s age from 220 to arrive at the maximum heart rate that should not be exceeded while exercising. Minimize alcohol consumption: Alcohol can increase the risk of breast cancer. And, the risk increases as the amount of alcohol consumed increases or as you get older. Therefore, it is recommended that one glass of wine a day is enough for women. Also, it is best to take folic acid supplements along with alcohol to reduce the damage caused by alcohol. Avoid estrogen replacement therapy: According to a study by the American Women’s Health Initiative, women who continue to receive combined estrogen and progesterone therapy have a 28% increased risk of breast cancer. Of course, doctors also recommend using hormone replacement therapy under medical supervision if menopausal symptoms are particularly severe. Stay away from tobacco, especially second-hand smoke: To have a healthier body, it is wise to quit smoking. And even if you don’t smoke, you still need to stay away from secondhand smoke. A survey by the California Environmental Protection Agency showed that smoking increases the incidence of breast cancer by 20 percent.