Breast cancer hovers at the top of the list of concerns in female health, responsible for more than 40,000 deaths a year. Few of those at risk are aware that by adopting some nutritional suggestions, we may be able to lower the frequency and aggressiveness of future breast cancer cases.
Breast cancer is a stranger to no one. It gathers media attention as we continue to devote much effort to defeating this life-threatening illness. Though screening and treatment of this particular disease are very important, it may surprise many to learn that it is actually the fifth leading cause of death behind heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and respiratory illness [Source: CDC]. The fear of breast cancer should not overshadow an awareness of heart or vascular disease, the leading causes of death. Fortunately, there are steps to prevent both cancer and heart disease simultaneously.
Simply eating five fruits and vegetables a day can aid in the prevention of chronic illness, yet only 25 percent of Americans actually achieve this intake [Source: CDC]. Eliminating refined sugars found in beverages and processed foods can have a dramatic impact on the body. The overconsumption of sweets might be one of the leading contributors to chronic illness such as breast cancer [Source: Grant].
Age and weight are two major variables in determining breast cancer risk. As a woman ages, her chances of getting the disease get higher [Source: CDC]. Obviously, age is not something we can prevent. That makes managing other risk factors that much more important. Many doctors fear that the poor lifestyle habits of developed nations, like the United States, are a leading cause of high rates of chronic disease. Smoking and poor diet have been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer [Source: Fung].
Weight may be one of the most important controllable risk factors. Multiple studies have documented the connection between obesity and breast cancer risk [Source: Lee, Huang, Petrelli]. This is most pronounced after menopause [Source: Lee]. Increased physical activity, improved diet and weight loss are proven to substantially reduce the risk of breast cancer, additional chronic diseases and cancer recurrence [Source: Haydon, Lee].
On the next page, learn about nutrients that can help prevent breast cancer.
