The National Cancer Institute (Inca) estimates 600,000 new cases of cancer in Brazil in 2019. This means that around 3% of the Brazilian population will develop some type of cancer this year alone.
Faced with this scenario, and knowing that breast cancer is the one that kills most women, it is important that you have your exams up to date and adopt habits that reduce the risk of developing the pathology.
Check out 8 tips that can help you prevent cancer:
Practice physical activities
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends moderate exercise five times a week for at least 30 minutes to prevent chronic diseases.
Do not smoke
Quitting smoking prevents cancers of the lung, oral cavity, larynx, pharynx and oesophagus. In addition to preventing the emission into the air of more than 4,700 toxic and carcinogenic substances that are inhaled by smokers and non-smokers.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding for two years or more, and exclusively for the first six months of a child's life, protects mothers from breast cancer and babies from childhood obesity.
Have a healthier diet
The greater intake of plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, greens, whole grains, among others, help keep the body healthier by preventing the development of cancer and other diseases.
Avoiding alcohol consumption
In any quantity alcohol can contribute to the development of cancers. Furthermore, when combined with tobacco, the risks increase.
Decrease consumption of processed meat
Processed meats such as sausages, frankfurters, bacon, hams, among others, are full of preservatives that are applied to the food during the preparation process and can contribute to the appearance of intestinal and stomach cancer.
Avoid the sun from 10am to 4pm
At these times of the day, the sun's rays, UVA and UVB, are stronger and can cause the appearance of non-cancerous or malignant tumours. So, whenever it is necessary to expose yourself to the sun at these times, use adequate protection such as sunscreen cream, hat, trousers and long-sleeved shirt.
Keep your oral hygiene up to date
See your dentist regularly and take care to brush your teeth and tongue after every meal and always floss your teeth.
Always keep up to date with your exams and see your doctor at least once a year or when you notice any unusual symptoms.
About Américas Amigas and donations of mammography exams
For every R$100.00 raised, Americas Amigasenables a mammogram for a low-income woman. This can help her to have an early diagnosis, enabling a greater chance of cure against breast cancer.
Help us in the fight against breast cancer.
To make your donation, click here!