On 19 October<\/b>, we commemorate World Breast Cancer Day<\/b>, a day that invites us to reflect on the importance of prevention<\/b>, early diagnosis<\/b> and comprehensive support<\/b> for those affected by this disease. On this occasion, we address not only the preventive measures we can all take, but also the relevance of early detection and comprehensive treatment.<\/p>\n
Prevention: How to Reduce the Risk<\/b><\/p>\n
There is growing evidence that healthy lifestyle habits<\/b> play a crucial role in the prevention of breast cancer. Genetic mutation in cells, which results in the loss of the natural mechanism of contact inhibition<\/b> (i.e. when one cell stops growing on contact with another), is the starting point of cancer. Although there is a genetic predisposition in some cases, external factors<\/b> are decisive. Here are the key actions to reduce the risk:<\/p>\n
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight<\/b><\/p>\n
Being overweight<\/b> is closely linked to breast cancer risk, especially in women close to menopause. Oestrogens<\/b> produced in fat tissue can contribute to tumour development. Maintaining an appropriate weight helps to reduce this risk, especially before, during and after the menopause.<\/p>\n
2. Follow the Mediterranean Diet<\/b><\/p>\n
This dietary pattern, rich in antioxidants<\/b>, helps protect cells from damage that could lead to DNA mutations. Foods such as oily fish<\/b>, olive oil<\/b> and nuts<\/b> contain healthy fats that reduce inflammation, while the fibre<\/b> in legumes and whole grains helps remove excess oestrogen from the body.<\/p>\n
3.<\/b> Get Daily Physical Activity<\/b><\/p>\n
An active lifestyle can reduce breast cancer rates by up to 14%. Exercise combats insulin resistance<\/b>, helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces fat accumulation. In addition, during cancer treatments, physical activity can improve mood and reduce the risk of recurrence.<\/p>\n
4.<\/b> Controlled Sun Exposure<\/b><\/p>\n
The sun is our main source of vitamin D<\/b>, essential for the body’s defences to repair damage that could lead to tumours. Controlled sun exposure, depending on geographical location, can be beneficial. Consult a health professional about possible vitamin D supplementation if necessary.<\/p>\n
5.<\/b> Avoid Toxics<\/b><\/p>\n
Alcohol<\/b> and tobacco<\/b> are two toxicants associated with increased risk of breast cancer. The ethanol<\/b> in alcohol increases oestrogen levels, while tobacco<\/b> and environmental pollution<\/b> can also increase the risk. In addition, some heavy metals<\/b> in processed foods may have similar effects.<\/p>\n
6.<\/b> Avoid Intense Light at Night<\/b><\/p>\n
Exposure to intense light at night reduces the production of melatonin<\/b>, a hormone that not only regulates sleep, but also protects against tumour development.<\/p>\n
Early Diagnosis: Key to Survival<\/b><\/p>\n
Early diagnosis is essential to improve cure rates and reduce mortality. Detecting breast cancer in its early stages allows for less invasive and more effective treatments.<\/p>\n
Diagnostic Methods:<\/b><\/p>\n Early diagnosis<\/b> improves prognosis and reduces the need for invasive treatments such as mastectomy. It also contributes to a significant reduction in breast cancer mortality.<\/p>\n Treatment: Personalised Approach<\/b><\/p>\n The treatment of breast cancer should be comprehensive, combining different therapies personalised according to the type of cancer and the patient’s general condition.<\/p>\n 1. Surgery<\/b><\/p>\n 2. Radiation therapy<\/b><\/p>\n Used to destroy cancer cells remaining after surgery or reduce the size of the tumour before surgery.<\/p>\n 3.<\/b> Chemotherapy<\/b><\/p>\n Used to destroy cancer cells, it may be given before or after surgery, depending on the case.<\/p>\n 4.<\/b> Hormone therapy<\/b><\/p>\n For hormone receptor positive cancers, this therapy reduces the risk of recurrence by blocking the action of oestrogen.<\/p>\n 5.<\/b> Targeted Therapy<\/b><\/p>\n Treats specific characteristics of cancer cells, such as trastuzumab<\/b> for HER2-positive tumours.<\/p>\n 6.<\/b> Immunotherapy<\/b><\/p>\n In triple-negative breast cancers, immunotherapy has been shown to be effective in activating the immune system to attack cancer cells.<\/p>\n 7.<\/b> Supportive Therapies and Palliative Care<\/b><\/p>\n Pain management, psychological care and physical rehabilitation improve patients’ quality of life.<\/p>\n 8.<\/b> Follow-up and Surveillance<\/b><\/p>\n Regular follow-up after initial treatment is vital to monitor recurrence and manage side effects.<\/p>\n The Importance of a Holistic Approach<\/b><\/p>\n Comprehensive<\/b> breast cancer treatment<\/b> combines oncological therapies with holistic care that considers the physical, emotional and social well-being of each patient. Each treatment is personalised to maximise quality of life and ensure the best possible outcome.<\/p>\n Nutrition and exercise during breast cancer treatment<\/b><\/p>\n Maintaining a balanced diet and regular physical activity are fundamental pillars for breast cancer patients, both during and after treatment. Not only do they improve general well-being, but they also help to reduce the risk of recurrence. In addition, a proper diet enhances the effects of cancer treatments, reducing side effects and strengthening the immune system.<\/p>\n Why is nutrition so important?<\/b><\/p>\n Nutrition plays a key role during cancer treatment. Some of its main benefits include:<\/p>\n Recommended foods for breast cancer patients<\/b><\/p>\n During breast cancer treatment, it is essential to pay attention to the foods you eat. Here are some of the most recommended foods:<\/p>\n Foods to avoid<\/b><\/p>\n There are certain foods that are best to limit or avoid during breast cancer treatment, as they can have a negative effect on health:<\/p>\n The role of exercise in breast cancer<\/b><\/p>\n Regular exercise is a powerful ally in the treatment of breast cancer. Some studies suggest that moderate physical activity can reduce fatigue and improve patients’ quality of life. It also helps to maintain a healthy weight and reduce inflammation, key factors in preventing cancer recurrence.<\/p>\n On this World Breast Cancer Day<\/b>, let’s reflect on the importance of taking care of our health, adopting preventive habits and supporting those who are facing this tough disease.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" On 19 October, we commemorate World Breast Cancer Day, a day that invites us to reflect on the importance of prevention, early diagnosis and comprehensive support for those affected by this disease. On this occasion, we address not only the preventive measures we can all take, but also the relevance of early detection and comprehensive…<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1209,"featured_media":3218,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3225","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-nutrition-and-diet","category-1","description-off"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n\n
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