Breast cancer begins long before the lump: why diet and lifestyle matter
While genetic predisposition is one factor, a majority of breast cancers develop in women with no family history: metabolic health and physical inactivity play a role too, and it is important for women to know about these factors How processed foods, obesity, diabetes, physical inactivity influence breast cancer risk, and what women can do to protect themselves
Breast cancer awareness month annually highlights the significance of mammograms, early detection, and advancements in treatment. These measures are crucial for saving lives, and their importance cannot be overstated. However, there exists another aspect of breast cancer that receives considerably less attention: the influence of diet, physical activity, obesity, diabetes, and metabolic health on the disease.
In my oncology practice, patients are often taken aback when I discuss these topics. They express surprise, stating, “Doctor, I was aware that breast cancer is linked to family history. Yet, I was unaware that lifestyle-related conditions such as diabetes and obesity play a role in it.” It is essential to recognize that while family history is a significant factor, lifestyle choices can also have a substantial impact on breast cancer risk.
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Written by urgent.news from The Hindu - Sci-Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
