Pink October! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Awareness is not only limited to knowing the symptoms but also knowing some tips that help you in breast cancer prevention.

Though there is a lot of good news such as scientists are constantly developing new therapies and we now know more than ever about strategies to avoid the disease, you should learn more about breast cancer.

Breast cancer prevention tips

These are general tips for all women

• Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer after menopause.
• Exercise regularly. Several studies have shown that physical activity may lower the risk of breast cancer. You’ll need to do 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, or 75 to 150 minutes if it’s a high-intensity exercise. It is preferable to distribute it throughout the week.
• Avoid or reduce alcohol consumption. Alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer, even in small amounts. It is preferable not to drink alcohol at all.
• Stop smoking. Smoking causes at least 15 different types of cancer, including breast cancer. In addition to other health risks caused by smoking.
• Breastfeeding if possible. Breastfeeding for a year or more reduces the risk of breast cancer. It also has great health benefits for the baby.
• Consult a doctor before using birth control pills, especially after the age of 35, and try to avoid using them as much as possible.
• Try to avoid hormone therapy when you reach menopause.

Diet and risk of breast cancer

A healthy diet can help reduce the risk of breast cancer. Try to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and drink less alcohol. Some studies also suggest that a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and dairy products that is rich in calcium, but low in red meat may help reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Prevention for women at high risk

If you are at risk of developing breast cancer, for example, if you have a strong family history of breast cancer or a known inherited genetic mutation that increases your risk of developing breast cancer, your doctor will help you determine your risk of developing breast cancer and what options are available and appropriate for you to prevent your risk.