Breast cancer affects millions of individuals around the world each year. Despite the global prevalence of breast cancer, various organizations report high five-year survival rates, particularly among women whose cancers are detected in the earliest stages of the disease. In fact, a 2023 study published in the journal BMJ found that the risk for dying from breast cancer in the five years after an early-stage diagnosis fell to 5% in recent years, a notable improvement from the 14% risk of death that was reported in the 1990s.
Increased survival rates for breast cancer are welcome news for women and their families. The higher survival rates are a byproduct of the tireless efforts of cancer researchers, who also have discovered links between the disease and certain lifestyle factors. Though there’s no way to eliminate one’s risk for breast cancer entirely, the American Cancer Society notes certain variables are within women’s control. With that in mind, women can consider these three strategies that can lead to improved overall health and might help women lower their risk for breast cancer as well.
Reach and maintain a healthy weight.
The benefits of maintaining a healthy weight include a lower risk for heart disease and stroke, and women should know that weight and breast cancer risk are linked as well. According to the ACS, increased body weight and weight gain as an adult are linked to a higher risk of developing breast cancer. That’s particularly so among post-menopausal women. A 2023 study published in the journal BMC Women’s Health found that the chances of developing breast cancer increase among post-menopausal women who are obese.
Avoid a sedentary lifestyle.
Exercise is one of the ways to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, so it makes sense that being physically active can reduce breast cancer risk. The National Cancer Institute reports that a 2016 meta-analysis of 38 cohort studies found that the most physically active women had between a 12 and 21 percent lower risk for breast cancer than women who were the least physically active. The NCI also notes that additional studies have found that women who become more physically active after menopause also have a lower risk for breast cancer than those who do not.
Limit or eliminate alcohol consumption.
The ACS urges women who drink to consume no more than one alcoholic drink per day, noting that consumption of even small amounts of alcohol have been linked to an increased risk for breast cancer. Officials with the MD Anderson Cancer Center note that the link between alcohol consumption and breast cancer risk is low. However, the MDACC notes that alcohol can contribute to unwanted weight gain, thus increasing cancer risk. In addition, alcohol can increase levels of estrogen and other hormones associated with breast cancer.
Physical Signs of Breast Cancer [second story]
The World Cancer Research Fund International reports that breast cancer is the second most common cancer across the globe, and the number one cancer in women. Nearly three million new cases of breast cancer in women are diagnosed around the world each year.
Breast cancer poses a notable threat to women’s health, but research and resulting advancements in treatment have made the disease more treatable than ever. Women also can play a part in ensuring better outcomes in relation to breast cancer by educating themselves about the disease, including its warning signs. The MD Anderson Cancer Center notes that most changes to the breast are a byproduct of hormonal cycles or conditions that are not as formidable as breast cancer. So women should not jump to any conclusions when spotting such changes. However, the MDACC recommends women visit their physicians if they notice any of the following signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
Lump
The MDACC notes that a lump in the breast or armpit is the most common symptom of breast cancer. Echoing assertions made by the MDACC, the American Cancer Society notes that most breast lumps are not cancerous.
The ACS indicates a lump that is a painless, hard mass with irregular edges is more likely to be cancer, though cancerous lumps also can be soft, round, tender, or even painful. The lack of uniformity regarding cancerous lumps is one reason why it pays for women to be extra cautious and immediately report any abnormalities in the shape and feel of their breasts to their physicians.
Swelling
The ACS notes that some women with breast cancer will experience swelling of all or part of a breast even if they do not feel a lump.
Dimpling
The MDACC reports that women with breast cancer may notice dimpling or puckering on the breast. According to the ACS, the dimpling can sometimes make the breast look like an orange peel.
Nipple Retraction
The National Cancer Institute notes that nipple retraction occurs when a nipple turns inward into the breast or lies flat against the breast. Though nipple retraction can be a sign of breast cancer, the NCI notes that’s not necessarily the case for all women. Some women experience nipple retraction due to aging, breastfeeding, injury, infection, surgery, or certain conditions of the breast.
Changes to the Skin Around the Breast
The ACS notes some women with breast cancer experience redness on the skin around the breast or on the nipple. Additional changes may include dry, flaking or thickened skin around the breast and nipple.
Discharge from the Nipple
The Mayo Clinic notes that it’s normal to experience discharge from the nipple while pregnant and during breastfeeding. However, fluid coming out the nipple when a woman is not pregnant or breastfeeding could be a symptom of breast cancer.
Additional Symptoms
The MDACC notes scaliness on the nipple that sometimes extends to the areola is another warning sign of breast cancer. The ACS also reports that swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collar bone can indicate that breast cancer has spread even before the original tumor in the breast has been felt.
Breast cancer is a formidable yet treatable disease. Women who recognize any signs and symptoms associated with breast cancer are urged to contact their physicians immediately.
