6 Ways to Prevent Breast Cancer, Women Must Know!

Kapanlagi.com - Breast cancer is certainly not unfamiliar to the public. This type of cancer is the most common type that occurs in women and is one of the frightening diseases that can lead to death. Some factors that cause breast cancer are genetic factors, age factors, pregnancy factors, and several other factors.

Cancer is basically a serious problem worldwide. This dangerous disease initially occurs when cells in the breast grow out of control. Then, these cells form a tumor and the appearance of lumps. Well, the tumor that grows aggressively eventually becomes cancer.

Although until now the exact cause of breast cancer is not known, one thing that is known is that breast cancer is always caused by damage to DNA cells and genetic changes in breast tissue. However, don't worry too much, there are many ways to prevent breast cancer that can be done on your own. Here are some ways to prevent breast cancer that you can start applying from now on.

1. Active Breastfeeding

Ways to prevent breast cancer (credit: freepik)

Breast cancer can actually affect anyone, but mothers who do not breastfeed their babies are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. According to research, women who actively breastfeed for approximately 1 year have a much lower risk of developing breast cancer.

There are several factors why breastfeeding women have a lower risk of developing breast cancer. This is because breastfeeding makes breast cells actively produce at all times. This limits the ability of breast cells to deviate.

In addition, breastfeeding women have fewer menstrual cycles. As a result, the level of estrogen hormone in the body is lower. Estrogen hormone is one of the factors that triggers breast cancer. So, breastfeeding can be one way to prevent breast cancer.

2. Reduce Birth Control Pills

Preventing Breast Cancer (credit: freepik)

Birth control pills are generally divided into 2 types, namely combination pills which contain two female sex hormones, estrogen and progesterone. The other type, mini pills, contain only progesterone. However, most people consume combination birth control pills which have other effects, such as breast cancer.

The high levels of reproductive hormones have long been known as one of the risk factors for cancer in women. Regular use of birth control pills can increase hormone levels in the body. From this, the theory arises that the effects of birth control pills can increase the risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer.

3. Maintaining an Ideal Body Weight

How to prevent breast cancer (credit: freepik)

Furthermore, preventing breast cancer can be done by maintaining an ideal body weight. Body weight is closely related to the risk of breast cancer. It is important to know that postmenopausal women who are obese have a 20-40 percent higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those with normal body weight. Therefore, start consuming a diet that can control your body weight and overall health.

4. Regular Exercise

How to prevent breast cancer (credit: freepik)

Engaging in physical activity or exercise for about 30 minutes every day is essential for achieving a healthy and fit body. Additionally, to prevent breast cancer, it is advisable to engage in physical activity or exercise. According to research, the influence of exercise on breast cancer prevention is due to the insulin hormone.

Exercise not only helps burn body calories but also reduces the levels of estrogen, testosterone, insulin, and growth factors. As a result, exercise can lower hormone levels and regulate insulin levels, thereby improving the immune system. So, from now on, make sure to allocate time for exercise every day.

5. Consumption of Whole Grains

How to prevent breast cancer (credit: freepik)

Whole grains are one of the foods that can prevent breast cancer that may not be widely known. This whole grain food contains complex carbohydrates, phytochemicals, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that have the potential to prevent breast cancer. According to a study, high fiber intake can alter hormone function in breast cancer. Some of the foods that include whole grains are red rice, wheat, black rice, sorghum, and corn.

6. Stop Smoking and Alcohol Consumption Habits

How to prevent breast cancer (credit: freepik)

Another way to prevent breast cancer is to quit smoking. If you are still actively smoking, the risk of getting breast cancer is 7-13 percent higher. Meanwhile, the potential for breast cancer is higher if you regularly consume more than one glass of alcoholic beverages per day. This can happen because there is a connection between alcohol levels and changes in hormone levels in the blood. Therefore, start leaving these bad habits.

Those are a series of ways to prevent breast cancer that you can start implementing now. In addition to the methods mentioned above, it is advisable to always maintain a healthy diet by prioritizing the intake of fruits and vegetables. Hope this is helpful.

(kpl/dtm)