At some stage in life, one in nine Pakistani women suffers from breast cancer
LAHORE: At some stage in life, one in nine Pakistani women suffers from breast cancer. In fact, Pakistan has the highest rate of breast cancer in Asia. The signs of it may include a lump in the breast, a change in shape, dimpling of the skin, secretions or a red scaly patch of skin. Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer in the world.
As many cannot afford mammography, which is very helpful in the detection of the disease, the simplest yet affordable technique is self-examination of breast once in a month.
The likely causes of breast cancer are the following risk factors: obesity, lack of exercise, hormone replacement therapy during menopause, ionising radiation, early age at first menstruation, having children late or not at all, old age, family history, lack of breastfeeding, higher levels of certain hormones and certain dietary patterns. Recent studies have shown that exposure to light pollution is also a risk factor for the development of breast cancer.
Women may reduce their risk of breast cancer by maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active and breastfeeding their children. The benefits with moderate exercise such as brisk walking are seen in all age groups, including postmenopausal women. High levels of physical activity reduce the risk of breast cancer by about 14%. High intake of citrus fruit has been associated with a 10% reduction in the risk of breast cancer.
Dr Zeeshan Khan
Published in The Express Tribune, October 31st, 2017.
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