- Double Mastectomy May Offer No Survival Benefit to Women With Breast Cancer
- Toxic Lead Found in Cinnamon Product, FDA Says
- Certain Abbott Blood Sugar Monitors May Give Incorrect Readings
- Athletes Can Expect High Ozone, Pollen Counts for Paris Olympics
- Fake Oxycontin Pills Widespread and Potentially Deadly: Report
- Shingles Vaccine Could Lower Dementia Risk
- Your Odds for Accidental Gun Death Rise Greatly in Certain States
- Kids From Poorer Families Less Likely to Survive Cancer
- Tough Workouts Won’t Trigger Cardiac Arrest in Folks With Long QT Syndrome
- At-Home Colon Cancer Test Can Save Lives
3 Lifestyle Changes To Help Prevent Breast Cancer
![](https://ladylively.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/womens-health7-300x336.jpg)
Although breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer among American women, there are three steps women can take to reduce their risk, a nutritionist says.
The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) estimates that about one-third of breast cancer cases could be prevented with weight control, exercise and cutting back on alcohol.
“While there are no guarantees when it comes to developing cancer, what we do know is that women can take steps every day to reduce the odds of developing breast cancer, along with many other cancers and chronic disease,” said Alice Bender, head of nutrition programs at AICR.
The first is to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. About 20 percent of breast cancer cases are due to excess body fat. And along with breast cancer, overweight and obesity increases the risk of 10 other cancers, Bender said in an institute news release.
The second step is to get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day. Doing so helps manage weight and boost the immune system.
And the third step is either avoid alcohol or drink in moderation. Even small amounts of alcohol on a regular basis increase the risk of breast cancer, according to Bender. Women who drink should limit their alcohol consumption to one glass a day.
Researchers also have found that breast-feeding reduces the risk of breast cancer, she said.
“When it comes to breast cancer, you can take control to lower risk through lifestyle changes that offer powerful protection,” Bender said.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
More information
The U.S. National Cancer Institute has more on breast cancer prevention.
Source: HealthDay
Copyright © 2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved.