A significant area that can reduce the risk of cancer by 30% has been identified as lifestyle factors, according to a recent report. While some risk factors for cancer are beyond our control, making small changes can have a profound impact on our overall health and wellbeing. Breast cancer ranks as the most common cancer in the UK, with statistics indicating that approximately one in seven women will receive a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime. Annually, the UK witnesses around 55,000 new cases of breast cancer, which represents 15% of all cancer diagnoses nationwide.
Thanks to early detection methods and advancements in treatment, survival rates for breast cancer have significantly improved. More than 75% of women diagnosed with breast cancer now survive for ten years or longer post-diagnosis. Routine screening, especially for individuals aged between 50 and 70, plays a crucial role in early detection, enabling timely intervention and treatment.
Prevent Breast Cancer expert and consultant breast surgeon, Cliona Kirwan, emphasised the importance of understanding and addressing risk factors for breast cancer. Kirwan commented, “We continue to gain insights into how to lower the risk of developing breast cancer. By understanding the causes and progression of breast cancer, we can take proactive steps to prevent its occurrence.”
Kirwan highlighted lifestyle choices as a key factor influencing breast cancer risk, stating, “Living a healthy lifestyle is one of the most significant areas where we can impact our risk of breast cancer. Engaging in regular physical activity, moderating alcohol consumption, eating a balanced diet, and prioritising rest all contribute to protecting our bodies and promoting healthy ageing.”
Moreover, Kirwan emphasised, “Approximately 30% of breast cancer cases are related to lifestyle factors. Maintaining a healthy weight, incorporating regular exercise into your routine, and limiting alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of breast cancer by 30%, even for individuals with a family history of the disease.”
Encouraging individuals to take charge of their health, Kirwan advised, “Performing regular self-checks is vital for early detection. Developing a habit of examining your breasts monthly, observing any changes in appearance, feeling for lumps or abnormalities, and noting any changes in the skin can help in early identification of potential issues.”
Family history also plays a crucial role in determining individual risk for breast cancer. Roughly a quarter of all breast cancer cases have a genetic component, which may be evident in familial patterns. Kirwan stressed the importance of understanding one’s family medical history, particularly regarding incidents of breast cancer, to assess personal risk levels accurately. For individuals with a strong family history of breast cancer involving close relatives like mothers, sisters, aunts, or grandmothers, Kirwan recommended consulting a GP about potential referrals to a family history clinic for further evaluation.
In conclusion, Kirwan underlined the significance of proactive steps in reducing the risk of breast cancer, highlighting the impact of lifestyle choices, regular self-examination, and awareness of family medical history in promoting early detection and effective management of the disease.