Top Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Your Breast Cancer Risk

Posted on May 14, 2025 by deni

Reducing your breast cancer risk involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits that can positively impact your overall health. Here are key strategies supported by research:

🥗 1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause, increases the risk of breast cancer. Even modest weight gain in adulthood can elevate this risk. Aim to keep your weight stable by balancing calorie intake with physical activity .WikipediaBreast Cancer Research Foundation

🏃‍♀️ 2. Stay Physically Active

Regular physical activity reduces breast cancer risk, particularly in postmenopausal women. Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise weekly . Even light activities, like walking, can be beneficial .American Cancer SocietyNew York Post

🍎 3. Eat a Balanced Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, while low in red and processed meats, can lower breast cancer risk. Aim for 3.5 to 5 cups of fruits and vegetables daily . Incorporate fiber-rich foods, such as brown rice, and limit sugary drinks and fatty foods.Breast Cancer Research FoundationNational Breast Cancer Foundation+1Breast Cancer Research Foundation+1

🍷 4. Limit Alcohol Consumption

Even light alcohol consumption increases breast cancer risk. The World Cancer Research Fund advises women to avoid alcohol entirely to reduce this risk .Time+13Wikipedia+13Wikipedia+13International Cancer Specialists (ICS)+2The Guardian+2Breast Cancer Now+2

🚭 5. Avoid Smoking

Smoking is a known risk factor for breast cancer, especially when started early in life. Quitting smoking can reduce this risk .Glamour

👶 6. Breastfeed if Possible

Breastfeeding may slightly lower breast cancer risk. The longer you breastfeed, the greater the potential benefit .American Cancer Society

🧴 7. Choose Personal Care Products Wisely

Some cosmetics and toiletries contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) like parabens and phthalates, which may increase breast cancer risk. Opt for fragrance-free and EDC-free products to minimize exposure .The Irish Sun

🧘‍♀️ 8. Manage Stress and Prioritize Sleep

Chronic stress and poor sleep can negatively impact health. Implement stress-reducing techniques and aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night to support overall well-being .

🩺 9. Regular Screening and Self-Exams

Regular mammograms and breast self-exams can help detect breast cancer early. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for screening based on your age and risk factors.

By incorporating these lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your breast cancer risk. Remember, even small adjustments can have a positive impact on your health.

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When to Consult a Doctor: Interpreting Breast Changes and Symptoms

Posted on May 12, 2025 by deni

Recognizing and promptly addressing changes in your breasts is vital for early detection of potential issues, including breast cancer. Here’s a guide to help you interpret breast changes and understand when to consult a healthcare provider:

🔍 When to Consult a Doctor About Breast Changes

If you notice any of the following signs or symptoms, it’s important to seek medical evaluation:

  • New or Unusual Lumps: A lump that feels different from the surrounding tissue or the same area in the opposite breast. Even if it’s painless, it should be assessed. Mayo Clinic Cancer Blog+1Mayo Clinic+1
  • Persistent Lumps: A lump that doesn’t go away or changes in size or feel after your next menstrual period. Mayo Clinic+1Mayo Clinic Cancer Blog+1
  • Skin Changes: Redness, dimpling, puckering, or scaling on the breast skin or nipple area. Mayo Clinic
  • Nipple Alterations: Inversion (nipple turning inward), discharge (especially if bloody), or other changes in appearance.
  • Swelling or Pain: Swelling in part or all of the breast, or persistent pain not linked to your menstrual cycle.
  • Lymph Node Changes: Swelling or lumps in the underarm or near the collarbone, which could indicate spread to lymph nodes.

🩺 What to Expect During a Medical Evaluation

When you consult a healthcare provider for breast changes, they may perform:

  • Clinical Breast Exam: A physical examination to assess both breasts and lymph nodes.
  • Imaging Tests: Such as mammography or ultrasound to visualize internal structures. Mayo Clinic
  • Biopsy: If necessary, a sample of tissue may be taken for laboratory analysis to determine if cancer cells are present.

📅 Importance of Regular Screening

Even in the absence of symptoms, regular screening is crucial:

  • Mammograms: Recommended annually starting at age 40 for women at average risk, or earlier based on personal and family history.
  • Self-Awareness: Familiarize yourself with the normal look and feel of your breasts to more easily notice changes.thesun.ie+2Mayo Clinic Cancer Blog+2Mayo Clinic+2

🧬 Special Considerations

  • Family History: If you have a family history of breast cancer, discuss genetic counseling and earlier screening options with your doctor.self.com
  • Men Can Be Affected: While rare, men can also develop breast cancer and should report any unusual changes to their healthcare provider.

Early detection of breast changes can lead to more effective treatment and better outcomes. If you observe any concerning signs, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider promptly.

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Recognizing Uncommon Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Posted on May 11, 2025 by deni

Breast cancer doesn’t always present with a noticeable lump. Some symptoms are subtle and less commonly recognized, yet early detection of these signs can be crucial. Here are several uncommon symptoms of breast cancer that warrant attention:Verywell Health

🔍 Uncommon Symptoms of Breast Cancer

1. Skin Changes Resembling an Orange Peel (Peau d’Orange)

Dimpling or thickening of the breast skin, giving it an orange peel-like texture, can indicate inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), a rare and aggressive form of the disease. Glamour+1Wikipedia+1

2. Redness, Swelling, or Warmth

Persistent redness, swelling, or warmth in the breast, not associated with infection or injury, may be signs of IBC.

3. Nipple Changes

Inversion (pulling inward), flattening, or sudden changes in the nipple’s position or appearance can be indicative of underlying breast cancer.

4. Unusual Nipple Discharge

Discharge from the nipple that is bloody, clear, or occurs without squeezing should be evaluated, as it can be a symptom of breast cancer.

5. Scaly or Flaky Skin on the Nipple or Areola

Persistent scaly, red, or flaky skin on the nipple or areola may be a sign of Paget’s disease of the breast, a rare form of breast cancer. Cancer Research UK+2City of Hope Cancer Treatment Centers+2Wikipedia+2

6. A Non-Healing Sore on the Breast

A sore or lesion on the breast that doesn’t heal could be associated with Paget’s disease or other forms of breast cancer. City of Hope Cancer Treatment Centers

7. Swollen Lymph Nodes

Swelling in the lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone can sometimes be the first sign of breast cancer, even before a tumor in the breast is detectable.

8. Persistent Breast Pain

While breast pain is often linked to benign conditions, persistent or unusual pain can, in rare cases, be a symptom of breast cancer.

9. Freckle-Like Spots or Skin Discoloration

Unexplained freckle-like spots or skin discoloration on the breast may be an early sign of IBC, as experienced by some patients.

🩺 Importance of Medical Evaluation

If you notice any of these uncommon symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider promptly. Early evaluation can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment, improving outcomes.

🧬 Regular Screening and Awareness

Regular mammograms and being attentive to changes in your breast health are vital. Since some forms of breast cancer may not present with typical symptoms, routine screenings can aid in early detection.

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Real-Life Stories Highlighting Uncommon Breast Cancer Symptoms

Glamour

How This Woman Found Out Her Freckles Were Actually a Sign of Breast Cancer

2,878 days agoNew York PostThis rare symptom delayed ‘Bachelorette’ star Katie Thurston’s breast cancer diagnosis84 days agoGlamourThe “Blink and You’d Miss It” Breast Cancer Symptom3,231 days ago

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Early Warning Signs of Breast Cancer Every Woman Should Know

Posted on May 9, 2025 by deni

Recognizing the early warning signs of breast cancer is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment. While symptoms can vary among individuals, being vigilant about changes in your breast health can make a significant difference.

🔍 Common Early Warning Signs of Breast Cancer

  1. New Lump or Mass: A new lump in the breast or underarm (armpit) is a common symptom. These lumps are often painless, hard, and have irregular edges, but some may be tender, soft, or rounded. City of Hope Cancer Treatment Centers+9University of Kansas Cancer Center+9CDC+9
  2. Swelling or Thickening: Swelling of all or part of the breast, even if no distinct lump is felt, or thickening of breast tissue. American Cancer Society
  3. Skin Irritation or Dimpling: Irritation, dimpling, or puckering of the breast skin, sometimes resembling the texture of an orange peel. NHS Inform+10MD Anderson Cancer Center+10nhs.uk+10
  4. Redness or Flaky Skin: Redness, dryness, or flakiness of the nipple or breast skin. CDC+2University of Kansas Cancer Center+2City of Hope Cancer Treatment Centers+2
  5. Nipple Changes: Pain in the nipple area, pulling in (inversion) of the nipple, or changes in the nipple’s appearance. nhs.uk+3University of Kansas Cancer Center+3CDC+3
  6. Nipple Discharge: Discharge from the nipple other than breast milk, including blood or clear fluid. Susan G. Komen®+3University of Kansas Cancer Center+3CDC+3
  7. Change in Size or Shape: Any change in the size or shape of the breast. City of Hope Cancer Treatment Centers+4University of Kansas Cancer Center+4CDC+4
  8. Breast Pain: Pain in any area of the breast, though breast pain is more often associated with benign conditions. City of Hope Cancer Treatment Centers+3CDC+3Susan G. Komen®+3
  9. Swollen Lymph Nodes: Swelling of lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone, which can sometimes indicate the spread of breast cancer even before the original tumor is detectable. American Cancer Society+1Wikipedia+1

⚠️ Special Considerations

  • Inflammatory Breast Cancer: This rare and aggressive form may not present with a lump. Instead, look for redness, swelling, warmth, and skin changes resembling an orange peel texture. Wikipedia+5American Cancer Society+5MD Anderson Cancer Center+5
  • Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS): Often detected through mammograms before symptoms appear, but may cause a lump, nipple discharge, or skin changes in some cases. Wikipedia

🩺 Importance of Regular Screening

Regular mammograms are vital for early detection, especially since some breast cancers may not present noticeable symptoms initially. Women are encouraged to follow screening guidelines appropriate for their age and risk factors. verywellhealth.com

🧬 Genetic Factors and Young Women

While breast cancer is more common in women over 50, younger women can also be affected, particularly those with genetic predispositions like BRCA mutations. Awareness and early detection are crucial across all age groups. couriermail

✅ When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

If you notice any of the above signs or other unusual changes in your breasts, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider promptly. Early evaluation can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment, improving outcomes.

For a visual overview of breast cancer signs and symptoms, you may find the following video informative:

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Understanding the Causes of Breast Cancer: Genetics, Lifestyle, and Environmental Factors

Posted on May 7, 2025 by deni

Breast cancer is a multifactorial disease influenced by genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Understanding these elements can empower individuals to assess their risk and take preventive measures.

🧬 Genetic Factors

Approximately 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary, primarily due to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA. When mutated, their ability to repair DNA is compromised, increasing cancer risk.

  • BRCA1 Mutation: Women with this mutation have a 55%–72% lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. Verywell Family
  • BRCA2 Mutation: Associated with a 45%–69% lifetime risk. Verywell Family

These mutations also elevate the risk of ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. Genetic counseling and testing are recommended for individuals with a family history of these cancers.Cancer Research UK

🧠 Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors

Certain lifestyle choices can influence breast cancer risk:

  • Alcohol Consumption: Regular alcohol intake increases risk. Even one drink per day can raise risk by 7%–10%, while two to three drinks daily can increase it by up to 20%. American Cancer Society
  • Obesity: Excess body weight, especially after menopause, is linked to higher estrogen levels, which can promote the development of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancers. American Cancer Society
  • Physical Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles are associated with increased risk. Engaging in regular physical activity can help lower this risk. National Breast Cancer Foundation
  • Reproductive History: Having the first child after age 30, not breastfeeding, and not having children can slightly increase risk.
  • Hormonal Therapies: Use of combined hormone replacement therapy (estrogen and progesterone) after menopause can increase risk, particularly with prolonged use.

🌍 Environmental Factors

Exposure to certain environmental elements may contribute to breast cancer development:

  • Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs): Substances like parabens and phthalates, found in some cosmetics and personal care products, can interfere with hormonal functions. These EDCs mimic estrogen and may promote the growth of hormone-receptor-positive breast cancers. The Irish Sun
  • Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation treatments to the chest area, especially during adolescence, can increase risk.
  • Environmental Pollutants: Exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants, such as pesticides and industrial byproducts, has been linked to breast cancer, though more research is needed to fully understand these connections.

✅ Risk Reduction Strategies

To mitigate breast cancer risk:

  • Limit Alcohol: Reducing alcohol intake can lower risk.
  • Maintain Healthy Weight: Achieving and sustaining a healthy weight, especially post-menopause, is beneficial.
  • Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly.
  • Be Cautious with Hormonal Therapies: Discuss the risks and benefits of hormonal contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy with healthcare providers.
  • Minimize Exposure to EDCs: Opt for personal care products free from harmful chemicals.
  • Regular Screenings: Undergo routine mammograms and self-examinations, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.

Understanding and addressing these risk factors can empower individuals to take proactive steps in reducing their breast cancer risk.

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How Hormonal Factors Influence Breast Cancer Development

Posted on May 5, 2025 by deni

Hormonal factors significantly influence the development and progression of breast cancer. Understanding how hormones like estrogen and progesterone affect breast tissue can help in assessing risk and implementing preventive strategies.

🧬 Estrogen and Breast Cancer Risk

Estrogen is a hormone that promotes the growth and development of breast tissue. However, prolonged exposure to high levels of estrogen can increase the risk of breast cancer. This exposure can be influenced by various factors:

  • Early Menarche and Late Menopause: Starting menstruation before age 12 or entering menopause after age 55 extends the duration of estrogen exposure, thereby increasing breast cancer risk .Canadian Cancer Society
  • Reproductive History: Having the first pregnancy after age 30, not breastfeeding, or never having a full-term pregnancy can raise breast cancer risk .CDC
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Postmenopausal women using combined HRT (estrogen and progesterone) have an increased risk of breast cancer, especially with prolonged use .Cancer Research UK
  • Oral Contraceptives: Certain oral contraceptives have been found to raise breast cancer risk .CDC

🧪 Progesterone’s Role

Progesterone, another hormone involved in the menstrual cycle, also plays a role in breast cancer risk. Combined HRT, which includes both estrogen and progesterone, has been associated with a higher risk of breast cancer compared to estrogen-only therapy .

🧫 Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer

Approximately 80% of breast cancers are hormone receptor-positive, meaning they grow in response to estrogen, progesterone, or both . These cancers are more likely to respond to hormonal therapies that block hormone receptors or lower hormone levels in the body.Cleveland Clinic

🧴 Environmental Estrogen Exposure

Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) found in some cosmetics and personal care products can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially increasing breast cancer risk. Substances like parabens and phthalates are common EDCs that may interfere with hormonal functions .The Irish Sun

✅ Risk Reduction Strategies

To mitigate hormone-related breast cancer risks:

  • Limit Hormone Therapy: Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration when considering HRT.
  • Regular Screenings: Engage in routine mammograms and clinical breast exams, especially if you have risk factors.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and limit alcohol consumption to reduce overall risk.
  • Evaluate Birth Control Options: Discuss with your healthcare provider the risks and benefits of various contraceptive methods.
  • Reduce Exposure to EDCs: Choose personal care products free from harmful chemicals like parabens and phthalates.

Understanding the influence of hormonal factors on breast cancer development is crucial for informed decision-making regarding prevention and treatment.

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The Role of BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes in Breast Cancer Risk

Posted on May 3, 2025 by deni

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumor suppressor genes that play a crucial role in repairing DNA damage and maintaining genomic stability. When these genes are mutated, their ability to repair DNA is compromised, leading to an increased risk of developing certain cancers, particularly breast and ovarian cancers.

🔬 What Are BRCA1 and BRCA2?

BRCA1 (Breast Cancer gene 1) and BRCA2 (Breast Cancer gene 2) are genes that produce proteins responsible for repairing damaged DNA. They help ensure the stability of a cell’s genetic material. When either of these genes is mutated, DNA damage may not be properly repaired, leading to an increased risk of cancer.

📈 Cancer Risks Associated with BRCA Mutations

Individuals with inherited mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have a significantly elevated risk of developing several types of cancer:

  • Breast Cancer:
  • Ovarian Cancer:
    • BRCA1 mutations confer a 39%–46% risk by age 70.
    • BRCA2 mutations confer a 10%–27% risk by age 70. ACOG+1Susan G. Komen®+1
  • Other Cancers:
    • Increased risks for prostate, pancreatic, and melanoma cancers have been associated with BRCA mutations. ACOG

🧬 Inheritance Patterns

BRCA mutations are inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern, meaning a child has a 50% chance of inheriting the mutation from a parent who carries it. Both men and women can inherit and pass on BRCA mutations.

🧪 Genetic Testing and Counseling

Genetic testing for BRCA mutations is recommended for individuals with a family history of breast, ovarian, or related cancers, especially if diagnosed at a young age. Genetic counseling can help assess risk and guide decision-making regarding testing and preventive measures.

🛡️ Risk Management Strategies

For individuals with BRCA mutations, several strategies can help manage and reduce cancer risk:

  • Enhanced Surveillance: Regular screenings, including mammograms and MRIs, starting at an earlier age.Allure
  • Prophylactic Surgery: Preventive removal of breasts (mastectomy) or ovaries and fallopian tubes (salpingo-oophorectomy) to significantly reduce risk.
  • Chemoprevention: Medications like tamoxifen may lower the risk of developing breast cancer.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and regular exercise can contribute to risk reduction.

Understanding the role of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in cancer risk is vital for early detection and prevention strategies. If you have concerns about your genetic risk, consult with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor to discuss appropriate testing and management options.

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Understanding the Causes of Breast Cancer: Genetics, Lifestyle, and Environmental Factors

Posted on May 1, 2025 by deni

Breast cancer arises from a complex interplay of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Understanding these elements is crucial for assessing risk and implementing preventive measures.

🧬 Genetic Risk Factors

Approximately 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are hereditary, stemming from mutations passed down from parents to children. Key genetic contributors include:American Cancer Society+1Breastcancer.org+1

  • BRCA1 and BRCA2: Mutations in these genes significantly elevate the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
  • Other Genetic Mutations: Alterations in genes such as PALB2, ATM, CHEK2, and TP53 also increase breast cancer risk. Cancer Research UK

Additionally, having a family history of breast cancer, especially in first-degree relatives diagnosed before age 50, heightens one’s risk. Cancer Research UK

🧠 Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors

Certain personal behaviors and lifestyle choices can influence breast cancer risk:

  • Alcohol Consumption: Regular alcohol intake is linked to an increased risk, with higher consumption correlating to greater risk.
  • Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can raise risk levels, whereas regular physical activity may offer protective benefits. American Cancer Society
  • Reproductive History: Not having children or having the first child after age 30 slightly increases risk. Conversely, breastfeeding may offer a modest protective effect. American Cancer Society
  • Hormonal Factors: Use of hormonal contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can slightly elevate risk, which diminishes after discontinuation. American Cancer Society
  • Body Weight: Being overweight or obese, particularly after menopause, is associated with a higher risk. Cancer Research UK+1American Cancer Society+1

🌍 Environmental Factors

Exposure to certain environmental elements may contribute to breast cancer development:

  • Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs): Substances like parabens and phthalates, found in some cosmetics and personal care products, can interfere with hormonal functions. The Irish Sun
  • Radiation Exposure: Prior radiation treatments to the chest area, especially during adolescence, can increase risk.
  • Environmental Pollutants: Exposure to certain chemicals and pollutants has been linked to breast cancer, though more research is needed to fully understand these connections.

🩸 Emerging Risk Factors

Recent studies suggest that blood type may influence breast cancer risk. Specifically, individuals with blood type A may have an 18% higher risk compared to those with blood type O. The Sun

✅ Preventive Measures

To mitigate breast cancer risk:

  • Limit Alcohol: Reducing alcohol intake can lower risk.
  • Maintain Healthy Weight: Achieving and sustaining a healthy weight, especially post-menopause, is beneficial.
  • Engage in Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly.
  • Be Cautious with Hormonal Therapies: Discuss the risks and benefits of hormonal contraceptives and HRT with healthcare providers.
  • Minimize Exposure to EDCs: Opt for personal care products free from harmful chemicals.
  • Regular Screenings: Undergo routine mammograms and self-examinations, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.

Understanding and addressing these risk factors can empower individuals to take proactive steps in reducing their breast cancer risk.

Recent Developments in Breast Cancer Research and Prevention

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Your blood type could increase your risk of breast cancer by 18% - do you know yours?

The Sun

Your blood type could increase your risk of breast cancer by 18% – do you know yours?

3 hari yang laluThe Irish SunThe full list of toxic chemicals in your makeup and shampoo ‘that risk breast cancer’, revealed by top UK charitykemarinThe Times’Bold policy action’ on breast cancer could save lives, study shows397 hari yang lalu

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October Is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Posted on October 19, 2016 by deni

Contrary to popular belief – most breast cancer is an “acquired” cancer – the genetic mutation that occurred to cause the cancer happened some time (or a number of mutations) during our life time – they are not hereditary cancers.

Only 5-10% of cancers are thought to be hereditary or “germline” inherited genes. Examples of this are BRCA, PALB2, HBOC… all of which can be discovered through genetic counselling.

The great news: We have a great deal of power in preventing breast cancer.

  • 246,660 women and 2,600 men are estimated to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2016
  • 54,000 additional women are estimated to be diagnosed with DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ)
  • Mortality… 40,890 women and men are estimated to die from breast cancer in 2016

… these stats courtesy of the National Cancer Institute.

Cancer researchers agree, there are 3 lifestyle choices that have the greatest influence in the prevention of breast cancer – and many other cancers:

  • Maintaining lower body fat levels
  • Keeping physically active = Exercise + regular, multiple times/day physical activity
  • Minimizing alcohol – and NO! A glass of wine each day is NOT good for your health. This myth went to fairy dust years ago.

One drink equals: 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of hard liquor. Many studies show us the deleterious effects of alcohol on cancer (and heart disease) start from the very first glass. The effects of the alcohol rise exponentially when combined with smoking.

Let’s look at the bigger picture, albeit, simplified. All 3 of these contributing factors can severely increase a person’s (both men and women) estrogen exposure. Higher estrogen exposure is associated with a greater risk of the disease. And sources of estrogen exposure vary for women pre menopausal vs. post menopausal.

Estrogen is stored in body fat, along with other nuisance hormones. For this reason, excessive amounts of body fat upsets hormonal balance, raises estrogen levels in the body.

And why does exercise reduce the risk? Numerous studies from around the world agree regular physical activity dramatically reduces the serum levels of estrogens. Women who also restrict dietary intake could further reduce their serum levels of estrogens.

Alcohol: Always worthy of a warning while on the topic of cancer. We have numerous studies – the largest alcohol and cancer study released in July 2016- that prove to us, alcohol causes breast cancer, and many others. Alcohol contributes to breast cancer in a number of ways – which is why women need to know, they must minimize alcohol… Just to name a few…

  • Alcohol can increase levels of estrogen and other hormones associated with hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer.
  • Alcohol (ethanol) is converted into a toxic chemical called acetaldehyde in our body, damaging the DNA, in a number of possible ways and preventing cells from repairing this damage
  • Alcohol is a solvent. When someone consumes alcohol and smokes they exponentially increase their risk for cancer as the alcohol enables the mutagenic chemicals in the tobacco to be better absorbed into the body.
  • Alcohol is a cause of oxidative stress, producing ROS – Reactive Oxygen Species which alter the DNA
  • Alcohol encourages the body to store fat. It provides the body with almost as many calories as fat, yet there is no benefit to the body, only burden. As we referred to earlier, body fat cells can be thought of as active endocrine glands, secreting hormones upsetting hormonal balance. Hormonal balance is critical in disease prevention.

The National Toxicology Program of the US Department of Health and Human Services lists consumption of alcoholic beverages as a known human carcinogen. In 1988, the IARC (International Agency for Cancer Research) declared alcohol a carcinogen

In our daily lives, we are exposed to many chemicals which are known endocrine disruptors. Many of these chemicals are used in our personal care products, make up, food additives, plastics… for another article!

The great news is… there is much we can do to prevent breast cancer. Understanding the disease from our DNA to guide our lifestyle choices, is true breast cancer awareness.

Shira Litwack, Medical Fitness Professional, Cancer Exercise Specialist, Medical Exercise Specialist
Proud creator of thousands of health enthusiasts & corporate health cultures world wide…

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Understanding the Basics of Breast Cancer

Posted on October 11, 2016 by deni

There is no sense in worrying about something that you don’t understand or know much about. Breast cancer carries the stigma of an indiscriminate killer but there is much about this disease that people do not know. If you are worried about it, you should know why it is legitimate to worry and why, in some ways, it isn’t.

Breast Cancer Statistics

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 252,710 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in 2017. About 63,410 new cases of CIS (carcinoma in situ), the earliest and non-invasive form of breast cancer, will be diagnosed the same year. Additionally, about 40,610 women will die from the disease.

These numbers are significant as breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, but there is another important number to put these into perspective: The total number of women living in the United States today is over 120 million, or 120,000,000 numerically. Just over three million of these are breast cancer survivors (including women who are still being treated and those who have completed treatment).

It is a dangerous disease and should be taken seriously, but it is by no means a death sentence thanks to advances in medicine and in improving understanding of the relationship of cancer to the body.

What Is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer begins when cells in the breast start to grow out of control. These cells often form a tumor, which may be felt as a lump or seen on an x-ray. The tumor is considered cancer (malignant) if the cells invade surrounding tissues or metastasize to farther areas of the body. While the disease occurs predominantly in women, it is possible for men to get it.

Most breast cancers start in the milk ducts (ductal cancers) while others start in the glands that make breast milk (lobular cancers). There are also other, less common, forms. It is important to note that not all cause a lump in the breast, so being aware of other signs and symptoms is valuable. Any lump or change (even if just in appearance) needs to be checked by a doctor.

Mutations in DNA can cause normal breast cells to become cancerous. Certain DNA changes can be inherited from parents and can greatly increase a person’s breast cancer risk. Other risk factors include lifestyle factors such as your level of exercise and what you eat. While research is still being in conducted in this area, there is a consensus that eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding any known risk factors can help reduce one’s risk. Hormones are also said to play a role in many cases.

How It Spreads

When cancer cells get into the lymph or blood system, it can be carried to other parts of the body. Your lymph system is a network of lymphatic vessels throughout the body that connect lymph nodes and carry lymph fluid, helping rid the body of toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials. The primary function of the lymphatic system, however, is to transport the lymph fluid, which contains white blood cells, throughout the body.

Know Your Risk, Own Your Health

Being well-informed about any risks to your good health is important, not just for shaping your lifestyle, but in decisions for the future. That’s where we come in! At reveal23, we are committed to providing individuals with affordable access to genetic cancer testing so you can find out what your DNA says about your health.

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