6 ways to prevent breast cancer

Introduction

Breast cancer is a common occurrence that ranks as number one among Indian females. It accounts for 14% of cancers in Indian women and is steadily rising in rural and urban India. 

The above statistics can be intimidating, however, by following certain precautions, breast cancer can be prevented. 

The best breast cancer doctor in Kolkata brings you six tips to follow to prevent breast cancer.

6 Ways to prevent Breast Cancer

• Maintain a Healthy Weight - Maintaining a healthy weight is essential to prevent breast cancer. Women who are overweight usually produce higher levels of estrogen and insulin, both of which increases the risk of breast cancer.
• Consume Fruits & Vegetables – Eating leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, fatty fish, berries, fermented foods and beans can reduce the risk of breast cancer.
• Breastfeed - Breastfeeding for a year or more decreases the risk of breast cancer. During breastfeeding, the breast sheds tissue that helps eliminate cells with DNA damages, reducing the chances of developing breast cancer.
• Avoid Birth Control Pills - According to a top breast cancer surgeon in Kolkata, women taking birth control pills have a higher chance of developing breast cancer. Birth control pills contain synthetic versions of estrogen and progesterone, which stimulate the development and growth of breast cancer.
• Avoid HRT - Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can increase the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women as the therapy contains a combination of estrogen and progestin. The longer time women are on HRT, the greater their chances of being diagnosed with breast cancer, says a breast cancer doctor in Kolkata.
• Tamoxifen and Raloxifene for Women at High Risk - Tamoxifen and raloxifene can lower the risk of breast cancer. However, you should consult a breast cancer doctor as the medicines have side effects and are unsuitable for everyone.