A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or illness. Breast cancer has a lot of risk factors, and studies show that your risk increases with a combination of factors rather than just one. Thus, mammograms become more crucial for high-risk individuals, for example, those with a family history of the disease.
When it comes to breast cancer, you cannot change factors like genes, race, age, etc. You also cannot do anything about the fact that your grandmother and mother had the disease. However, you can certainly take measures to better your lifestyle. For example, do more exercise, consume less alcohol, etc. To know more, click here now.
Risk factors for breast cancer: Lifestyle habits
Alcohol use.
Your risk of developing breast cancer increases bit by bit every day if you consume alcohol. Studies and research show that individuals who drink one or two drinks per day have a 5-10% increase in risk, while people who have 3-4 glasses experience a risk of 20%. For women, the American Cancer Society does not recommend more than one drink per day. The amount should be no more than 14 grams of alcohol.
Sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy body weight.
The amount of physical movement and exercise you do has an effect on your risk of developing breast cancer. In fact, people who get treated for breast cancer successfully have a high chance of getting the disease back if they do not follow a healthy lifestyle. Exercise and movement help keep your body fit and have a healthy weight. Studies show that post-menopausal weight and being obese or overweight can increase your risk.
Taking hormones.
If you take hormones in any form, such as in hormone replacement therapy, your risk of getting breast cancer increases. Hormones, both estrogen and progesterone, when taken continuously for more than five years, can be risky. Oral contraceptives, such as birth control pills, also contain hormonal medication and can be dangerous.
Food and diet.
While there is no scientifically backed-up evidence that certain foods and a certain type of diet will increase your breast cancer risk, it is recommended to eat items with health benefits rather than those that harm you. For example, eat more fruits and vegetables and healthy animal fats. Mostly, the concern is about the intake of processed meats due to the high salt, fat, and nitrate levels. There is also a link suggesting a relationship between red meat and breast cancer.
If you have never been to a mammogram test before, it is never too late to start. Book an appointment today.
