The pink ribbons are small reminders of the many women who have been affected by breast cancer. And, the Komen Race for the Cure and Breast Cancer 3 – day walk will make you cry, cheer and warm your heart when you see the incredible displays of strength and courage by those who have survived and the friends and families of the women whose lives were cut short by this disease.
The good news is that more women are surviving their fight against breast cancer thanks to early detection through self exams and mammography and advances in treatment options. However, breast cancer is still a leading cause of cancer death in women, surpassed only by lung cancer.
Tough there are many types of breast cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight. Overweight and obesity may increase your risk.
- Incorporate physical activity into your life everyday. The American Cancer Society recommends 30 minutes on 5 or more days a week though 45-60 minutes is preferable.
- Limit your alcohol intake.
- Think Pink but eat a rainbow. The best foods for cancer prevention are fruits and vegetables. And, each piece of produce is packed with it’s own unique array of antioxidants that can help you stay healthy and protect you against some forms of cancer. Aim for 9 servings, 4.5 cups, of fruits and vegetables every day.
- Avoid hard fats (butter and shortening, meat fat), burnt meat (charred and burnt meat may increase your cancer risk due to heterocyclic amines)
- Limit your booze intake
For more tips on breast cancer prevention through diet, watch me on CBS Atlanta today between 4:00 – 4:30 pm.
For more information about breast cancer treatment, prevention and clinical trials, click here or visit the American Cancer Society.