The Importance Of Awareness In The Prevention Of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women across the world, including India (source: National Library of Medicine). Because of the rising incidence, mortality rates, and advanced stages of the cancer at diagnosis, it is essential to spread awareness about breast cancer literacy. 

Why is creating awareness important?
Although most people are aware of the damage cancers can do, they do not take proactive steps to prevent it. Most cancers including breast cancer can be prevented by modifying our lifestyle, adopting healthy habits and going for annual full body preventive health checkups. These modest changes can help in the prevention and also detect the disease in its early stages if it occurs. It's essential to understand that early detection through checkups can make treatment and cure easier. 

How to be breast aware?
Creating awareness at one-to-one level works the best. You can start by speaking to your friends and colleagues and share verified information about cancer prevention. Remember, knowledge is power. Here's what you can discuss among your peers to spread the word:

• Any sudden changes in your health
• Lump or other abnormalities in your body/breasts 
• Self breast examination
• Health checkups
• Cancer screening tests
• Visiting gynecologist

You can also use the worldwide used tools like breast cancer awareness month, participate in campaigns - but first of all, be aware yourself.

Important stats and facts to know about breast cancer

• 1 out of 22 urban women, and 1 out of 60 rural women in India are at risk
• Highest risk age group is between 43 to 46 years
• Only 7-10% of breast cancers are hereditary, rest can be prevented by lifestyle changes 
• Breast cancer mostly doesn't show symptoms at its onset and initial stages 
• Regular preventive health checkups help in early detection and successful treatment

Tips for breast cancer prevention and reducing your risks

• Quit smoking and consumption of tobacco
• Limit your alcohol intake
• Eat nutritious meals
• Maintain a healthy body-weight 
• Exercise daily and keep your body active
• Know your family's medical history
• Be regular with your health checkups 

Breast cancer can go undiagnosed until advanced stages where treatment becomes difficult and can cause loss of life. Your routine full body health checkups are important for early detection of cancer and other health issues that can increase your risk by multifold. You will need a special screening plan if you have a family health history of cancers. 
Know which health checkup package you should choose in such cases to reduce your risk for breast cancer.