Ten Tips on Cancer Prevention
Breast cancer is a disease I feel very personally connected to. My sister and aunt are survivors. I have friends who are fighting and losing the battle as I write this. In following their experiences it occurs to me that breast cancer is a subject people tend to not talk about until it hits them in some way. Cancer isn’t pleasant, but it is important to talk about and arm yourself with information on prevention.
In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month we are providing a list of tips from the American Institute for Cancer Research on dietary and lifestyle recommendations that can help prevent cancer. We’ve also compiled a list of resources – everything from how to check yourself, knowing your risks and how you can get involved in the activities that mark this month.
Recommendations for Cancer Prevention:
- Be as lean as possible without becoming underweight.
- Be physically active for at least 30 minutes a day.
- Avoid sugary drinks. Limit consumption of energy dense foods.
- Eat more of a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes such as beans.
- Limit consumption of red meats (such as beef, pork and lamb) and avoid processed meats.
- If consumed at all, limit alcoholic drinks to two for men and one for women a day.
- Don’t use vitamin or herbal supplements to protect against cancer, unless directed by your health care provider.
- *It is best for mothers to breastfeed exclusively for up to six months then add other liquids and foods.
- *After treatment, cancer survivors should follow these recommendations for cancer prevention as part of a healthy lifestyle plan, and the instructions of your health care provider.
*Special Population Recommendations
For more detailed information on the recommendations above, visit the American Institute for Cancer Research’s website: Recommendations for Cancer Prevention
National Breast Cancer Foundation: Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The Foundation has information on learning about and create an early detection plan, “Beyond the Shock,” an educational and emotional resource for patients and their friends and family, and a comprehensive list of breast cancer awareness programs you may choose to get involved with, such as supporting mammograms for women in need.
The Foundation also has a strong fundraising component with ideas on events in your community and how you can support them or become involved as a volunteer.
The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) is a collaboration of national public service organizations, professional medical associations, and government agencies all working together to promote breast cancer awareness, share information, and provide greater access to services. They have an extensive list of supportive organizations, a store where purchases can go towards supporting the cause and information on fundraising.
The ACS has an extensive library covering the facts about breast cancer – what it is, how to detect it and information and resources on getting through treatment. They also have a section for support – from online communities to share with others, information on hair loss and mastectomy products, mammogram reminders and more.
The ABCF is a resource for those who need assistance – from providing information on resources needed to fight the disease to a community to find support. Like many of the resources listed above they also have a strong fundraising component to promote awareness, and a list of ways you can lend your support