Boost The Odds Of Surviving Breast Cancer

Being pregnant many times or at an early age reduces breast cancer risk

JUST one daily drink could sharply reduce a breast cancer sufferer’s chance of survival.

Researchers in Italy say the survival rate for non-drinkers is almost 90 per cent but this drops to 65 per cent for women who had just one large glass of wine a day.

Henry Scowcroft, of Cancer Research UK, said: “The more a woman drinks, the higher her risk.”

More than 12,000 people die of breast cancer every year in the UK.

Here is how you can improve your chances of living longer.

Cut down red meat

Red meat contains amino acids which stimulate insulin – and high insulin levels have been linked to breast cancer.

Processed meats such as ham and salami have also been linked with the disease because they contain cancer-causing sodium nitrates.

Have kids before 30

Being pregnant many times or at an early age reduces the risk.

Experts believe this is because it lowers the number of menstrual cycles a woman has in her lifetime.

Get active

EXERCISE can cut the risk of breast cancer, according to several studies.

But experts cannot agree on how much it lowers the chances.

One study found that as little as one hour and 15 minutes to two-and-a-half hours of brisk walking a week reduced the risk by 18 per cent. Walking for ten hours a week reduced the risk a little more. But the American Cancer Society suggests exercising for 45 to 60 minutes at least five days a week.

Olive oil

A DRIZZLE of olive oil on your dinner could help keep breast cancer at bay. Spanish researchers found it can attack tumours, stunting their growth and protecting DNA. Dr Eduard Escrich, who led the study, recommended ten teaspoons of quality extra virgin olive oil a day.

And Doctor Richard Beliveau added: “Scientists are unsure what mechanisms are responsible for these effects, but the final results are no less impressive.”

Lose weight

AROUND 30 per cent of breast cancer cases are thought to be caused by obesity.

Breastfeed

SOME studies have shown that breastfeeding slightly lowers the risk of breast cancer, especially if you feed for 18 months to two years.

This could be because it lowers a woman’s number of periods.

Ditch the booze

DRINKING alcohol is a big risk factor when it comes to breast cancer.

Women who have just one drink a day have an increased risk. Those who drink more have about one-and-a-half times the risk of women who drink no alcohol.

Contraception

WOMEN who use the Pill have a greater risk of getting breast cancer, according to research. Some experts claim you are 24 per cent more likely to get the disease if on the Pill.

Posted by Admin on July 30, 2011. Filed under HEALTH. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.