Breast Cancer: Learn How to Prevent It and Protect Yourself

Breast cancer is one of the most common diseases among women and is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Despite this, many women still have little information about what breast cancer is, its risk factors, and, most importantly, how to prevent it.

It is important to understand what causes breast cancer and to know the best preventive measures we can take in our daily lives. The goal is to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and to encourage healthy habits that help reduce the risk of the disease.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when breast cells begin to grow uncontrollably. This uncontrolled growth can result in a malignant tumor, capable of invading adjacent tissues or spreading to other parts of the body (metastasis). Breast cancer can manifest in various forms, the most common being ductal carcinoma, which develops in the milk ducts.

Although breast cancer primarily affects women, it is important to remember that men can also develop this disease, albeit less frequently. Regardless of gender, early detection significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

There are a number of factors that increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer. These factors can be classified as modifiable (those over which one has some control) and non-modifiable (those that cannot be changed).

Non-modifiable factors

1. Age: The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age, and most cases occur in women over 50.
2. Family history and genetics: Having first-degree relatives (mother, sister, daughter) who have had breast cancer increases the risk. In addition, inherited genetic changes, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, significantly increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
3. Personal history of cancer: Women who have previously had breast cancer or certain precancerous conditions are more likely to develop the disease again.
4. Reproductive cycle: Prolonged exposure to estrogen throughout life—such as early onset of menstruation (before age 12) or late menopause (after age 55)—can increase the risk.

Modifiable factors

1. Lifestyle: Factors such as diet, alcohol consumption, smoking, and physical activity levels can affect the risk of developing breast cancer.
2. Weight: Being overweight, especially after menopause, is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer due to the additional production of estrogen by adipose tissue.
3. Use of hormone therapy: Long-term use of combined hormone therapies (estrogen and progesterone) after menopause is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
4. Radiation exposure: Women who have undergone radiation treatment to the chest area, especially during their youth, have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

Symptoms of breast cancer

Although breast cancer may be asymptomatic in its early stages, there are some signs to watch for. In our article “Symptoms of Breast Cancer: Identify the Early Signs,” we explore these signs and symptoms in greater depth, helping women identify changes that should be investigated.

Among the main symptoms are:

• Lumps or hardening in the breast or underarms;
• Changes in the shape or size of the breast;
• Changes in the skin of the breast, such as wrinkling or redness;
• Discharge from the nipple, especially if it is bloody.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation. The earlier the cancer is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment.

How can you prevent breast cancer?

Although some risk factors cannot be changed, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing breast cancer.

1. Adopt a healthy
   diet A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fat, can help prevent breast cancer. Foods such as fish rich in omega-3, berries, and cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli and kale) have properties that help fight the development of cancer cells.
2. Exercise regularly
   Staying physically active helps control body weight and reduce estrogen levels in the body, which can lower the risk of breast cancer. At least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity per day, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, is recommended.
3. Limit alcohol
   consumption Alcohol consumption is directly linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Limiting alcohol intake to one drink per day—or avoiding it entirely—is one of the best ways to reduce your risk.
4. Don’t smoke
   Smoking has been linked to many types of cancer, including breast cancer. Quitting smoking—or never starting—is one of the healthiest decisions you can make.
5. Perform regular
   self-exams Knowing your body is essential. Performing regular self-exams can help identify changes in your breasts that warrant a doctor’s visit. Although self-exams are not a substitute for clinical exams, they are an important tool for early detection.
6. Consider breastfeeding
   Breastfeeding, especially for a year or more, can reduce the risk of breast cancer, possibly because it lowers lifetime exposure to estrogen.
7. Get Regular
   Screenings Regular breast cancer screening through mammograms is one of the most effective ways to detect the disease at an early stage, often before symptoms appear. It is recommended that women over 40 undergo routine mammograms. In our article “Breast Cancer Screening: When and How to Get Screened,” you can read in more detail about how and when to undergo this essential exam.

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

As mentioned, breast cancer screening is one of the most effective strategies for detecting the disease early. Early diagnosis allows the disease to be treated at an early stage, which significantly increases the chances of a full recovery.

Regular screening, combined with periodic medical checkups, is crucial, especially for women with increased risk factors. It’s important to follow medical recommendations and not delay screening tests, such as mammograms, which can be crucial for early detection.

Take care of your health: prevention is within your reach

Breast cancer is a serious disease, but there is much you can do to reduce your risk and increase the chances of early detection. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, paying attention to your body’s signals, and getting regular checkups are some of the most effective ways to prevent it.

Germano de Sousa has several collection points available in various locations, where you can undergo exams and tests that help prevent breast cancer. Visit the Germano de Sousa collection point nearest you and take the initiative to take care of your health today.