As another year draws to an end, it’s time to welcome the new year. The start of a new year can be the perfect opportunity to start something new and opt for better health. When it comes to making health resolutions, one should not ignore breast health. Rising incidences of breast cancer make it even more essential that we become cautious in advance.
Enlisted below are top 5 resolutions for better breast health in the coming new year. Read along and find out ways to care for your breasts!
- Opt for an annual breast screening: One of the best ways to care for your breast health is through regular screenings in the form of mammograms. This health check-up should be part of your annual health screenings if you are a woman over 40 years old. The easiest way to detect breast cancer early is through regular breast screening.
- Know your breasts: Apart from having a mammogram, women should also get into the habit of self-examining their breasts on a monthly basis. Knowing how your breasts look and feel normally, will help you detect any changes in them. If you find any abnormalities, such as a lump or cyst on your breast, report them to your doctor immediately.
- Recognize your breast cancer risk: The two main risk factors for breast cancer are gender and advancing age. If you are a woman aged above 45 years, you are more prone to getting breast cancer. If you have a first-degree relative (mother, sister) who has breast cancer, your chances of inheriting it are much higher. To determine your risk factors, you should get in touch with your health care provider, who may refer you to a genetic counsellor.
- Exercise regularly: Physically active women are less likely to develop breast cancer compared to women who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Exercising regularly will improve the immune system, prevent obesity, and lower the levels of insulin and oestrogen in the body. An ideal body weight should be maintained, especially after attaining menopause, as overweight females increase their chances of breast cancer by 30 to 60%.
- Increase your intake of vitamin D: Vitamin D is an essential component for maintaining good bone health and boosting the immune, nervous, and muscle systems. Studies have shown that high levels of vitamin D reduce the risk of breast cancer and also keep the cancer cells from growing. Adequate amounts of vitamin D can be obtained from exposure to direct sunlight. Other than this, consuming foods rich in this vitamin, such as seafood, is also helpful. Taking vitamin D3 supplements can also replenish your deficiency.
By following the above resolutions, one can work towards better breast health and prevent the risk of getting breast cancer. With the able guidance of your health care provider, and this easy-to-follow list, you can take care of your breasts and sail through the year without having to worry about breast cancer!
References:
- 6 resolutions for better breast health in the new year. UCLA Health. https://connect.uclahealth.org/2021/01/21/6-resolutions-for-better-breast-health-in-the-new-year/
- 8 New Year’s Resolutions to Improve Your Health. Healthy Women. https://www.healthywomen.org/your-wellness/new-years-resolutions-improve-health
- 5 New Year’s Resolutions for Good Health. Emerson Health. https://www.emersonhospital.org/articles/5-new-years-resolutions-for-good-health