In 2022, the American Cancer Society’s estimates that around 287,850 new cases for invasive breast cancer in women will be diagnosed in the United States.1 Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in women globally. Statistics show that women over the age of 50 have higher chances of being diagnosed with breast cancer, and less than 5% of the cases are women below 40 years of age. While the exact causes of breast cancer are not fully understood, there are certain factors known to increase the risk. These include age, family history of breast or ovarian cancer, reproductive history, i.e. early onset of menstruation or late onset of menopause, past non-cancerous breast conditions/lumps, and past treatments using radiation therapy for other cancer-related treatments. While some breast cancer risk factors are uncontrollable, there are others that one can do something about.
To raise awareness during the Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Amitabha Majumdar, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Hortman Clinics outlines these risk factors to aid in the prevention of breast cancer.
Be physically active and maintain a healthy weight
Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause increases the risk of developing breast cancer. A healthy diet combined with regular exercise is recommended. Just 30 minutes a day of heart-healthy exercise can lower the risk.
Limit Alcohol
Studies show that the risk of breast cancer increases with the amount of alcohol consumed as it increases estrogen levels and other hormones associated with hormone-receptive breast cancers which can in turn increase the risk by damaging DNA in cells.
Limit postmenopausal hormone therapy
Some forms of hormone replacement therapy taken during menopause can raise the risk of breast cancer depending on the duration of the therapy. Oral contraceptives also have been found to raise the risk, but it reduces once you stop taking it.
Be breast aware
It is important to know how your breasts usually look and feel like so that you can spot any changes quickly. Get used to how your breasts feel at different times of the month. Perform regular breast self-examinations, checking all parts of your breasts, armpits, and upper chest, up to the collar bone. If any changes are noticed, bring it to the attention of your doctor.
Screening
Early detection is crucial for breast cancer prevention and other women’s health issues. The best way to stay on top of possible problems is to do your yearly health check-ups and screenings. Screening can help detect breast cancers early when they are too small to see or feel. These tiny breast cancers are usually easier to treat than larger ones. Mammograms use X-rays to look for such cancers, and it is recommended that women over 40 years have regular mammograms. Those with high-risk factors should discuss with their doctors on whether early screening is beneficial.
Hortman Clinics is a premium wellness clinic in Dubai, equipped with world-class practitioners and cutting-edge technologies that specialises in wellness and healthcare procedures into patient-tailored experience journeys. The Hortman Clinics’ facility is located in the heart of Dubai, at the Burj Al Salam Tower on Sheikh Zayed Road, with a luxurious space where clients can revive, rebalance and restore. Appointments are available within the clinic’s opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm. For more information, visit www.hortmanclinics.com and keep up with the latest news via @Hortman.Clinics on Instagram.
About Hortman Clinics
Founded in 2021, Hortman Clinics is a premium wellness and aesthetic polyclinic in Dubai designed to transform beauty, wellness, and health programs and procedures into patient-centred and tailored experience journeys. Featuring world-class practitioners and cutting-edge technology, Hortman Clinics employs a personalized approach to each client. Its medical excellence specialists design programs and procedures with a client’s distinctive goal in mind. Their 360-degree approach to wellness and personalized plans include treatments such as cosmetic surgeries, anti-aging treatments, laser treatments, IV therapy, obstetrics, gynaecology, etc.
