Critical Steps on Preventing Breast Cancer
Even if it means having to remove both of her breasts, Hollywood actress Angelina Jolie has undergone double mastectomy to cut her risk of breast cancer. From 87 per cent, her chances of developing the disease went down to less than 5 per cent.
Jolie said the procedure began in February and was completed by the end of April. In the article she wrote, the 37-year-old actress said her mother fought cancer for over nearly a decade and died at the age of 56. After her doctors told her that she was at high risk of developing the same disease, she immediately decided to take preventive action. She wanted to assure her children that they wouldn’t lose her to cancer.
Jolie is a carrier of BRCA1 – a gene that produces a protein called breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein. Mutation of this gene has been linked to a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
Breast Cancer Prevention
Breast cancer is among the leading causes of death in women. But even though it poses serious harm to anyone’s health (male or female), this disease is preventable. Apart from undergoing mastectomy, you can stay away from breast cancer by following these simple yet critical steps:
Consult your doctor. The earlier you know, the more you can do something to cut your risk. Women are advised to undergo breast screening procedures to check whether they have malignant tumours or cysts that may later develop into cancer. Two of the most common screen tests used today are thermal imagery and mammography. Lab tests and biopsy can be done as well. If you have a family history of cancer, and you’re over the age of 50, or you sense a cyst in your breast, talk to a health professional as soon as possible.
Change your diet. Among the foods to avoid are too much red meat, processed foods, and too much sugar. Alcohol consumption should also be regulated to reduce the risk of cancer. Moreover, avoid using processed trans-fatty acid hydrolyzed oils and canola oil. Instead, use organically pressed olive or sunflower oil. Your diet should consist mainly of green and cruciferous vegetables, and plenty of green tea.
Avoid applying chemical-containing topical solutions. They can probably keep your skin glowing but commercial cosmetics contain cancer-inducing chemicals like parabens and phthalates. Choose natural cosmetic products in your local health store. Sunscreens should only be used for extreme sun exposure.
Avoid carcinogenic pollutants. Cigarettes contain one of the most toxic carcinogen cadmium. Studies have shown that people who smoke are at a higher risk of getting cancer than those who don’t. Cadmium is also found in batteries so make sure they are properly disposed or kept when not in use. Air pollutants coming from vehicle engines also carry carcinogenic compounds so you may want to avoid them.
Make sure your hormones are well-balanced. Hormonal imbalance can greatly increase your risk of developing breast cancer. Birth control pills, plastic food containers, inner lining of cans, and synthetic hormone replacement therapies can keep your sex hormones out of whack.
Take vitamin D. Keep your vitamin D3 levels high to prevent cancer cell growth. You can obtain vitamin D from moderate exposure to sunlight or taking supplements.
Preventing cancer is in your hands. If you are at risk of developing this disease, talk to your doctor today.
Sources of this article:
Angelina Jolie has double mastectomy due to cancer gene
Six steps to take today to naturally prevent breast cancer
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