Cancer, what it is, and how to prevent

The chances of a cure are greater when the disease is diagnosed early; find out what measures and care recommended by various health professionals

Breast cancer is the most common among women in the world.

Prevention and detection are essential to reduce the mortality rate from the disease.

Primary prevention is related to the control of known risk factors and the promotion of practices and behaviors considered to be protective.

Breast cancer is the result of abnormal and disordered multiplication of breast cells, forming a tumor. This behavior of the cells is caused by a genetic alteration, which can be inherited (which occurs only in about 10% of cases) or spontaneous, caused throughout life.

Hereditary factors and those associated with the woman’s reproductive cycle are, for the most part, not modifiable; however, factors such as excess body weight, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption and hormone replacement therapy are, in principle, subject to change.

Genetic tests should be carried out with the assistance of a geneticist. If the increased risk is proven, it is possible to conduct additional preventive measures.

Prevention among modifiable risk factors includes changes in habits that involve avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, not smoking, practicing physical activities, having a healthy diet and avoiding exposure to environmental risks. Together, these actions significantly decrease a person’s chances of developing breast cancer. However, even if these measures are put in place, there is still the possibility, although reduced, of breast cancer to manifest.

Signs of breast and cancer

The most common feature of the disease is the appearance of a lump in the breasts or armpits that is usually painless. In addition, the patient may show other, less frequent signs; see below:

* Swelling of all or part of a breast (even if it doesn’t feel like a lump)

* Edema (swelling) of the skin

* Erythema (redness) on the skin

* Inversion of the nipple

* Asymmetry of the breasts

* Thickening or retraction of the skin or nipple

* Secretion by the nipples

* Swelling of the arm

* Pain in the breast or nipple

Treatment options for breast cancer are varied and depend on the type and stage of the disease. Among them are:

* Surgery;

* Radiotherapy;

* Chemotherapy;

* Hormonal therapy;

* Targeted therapy.

Most women with breast cancer will have some type of surgery to remove the tumor. Depending on the type of cancer and the stage of the disease, you will also need other forms of treatment.

Importance of healthy eating.

Eat a diet rich in vegetables (fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains …);

Limit your consumption of fast food and processed foods high in fat, starch and sugar;

Moderate in red and processed meat;

Reduce your intake of sugary drinks;

Decrease the consumption of alcoholic beverages;

For mothers: breastfeed your babies.

Breast cancer is a disease that can and should be prevented.

Review your eating habits and spread this information to family and friends.

Prevention starts there!