Is Cancer Avoidable?

It seems there’s always a new study detailing what you can (or can’t) eat to avoid cancer, or warnings about the impact of stress; which is no stranger to working women. But then a week later, another study debunks the previous one. So what should you believe?

Seventy-five percent of all women with breast cancer have no known risk factors, according to the American Cancer Society.

Want to be proactive?

Among the established factors that increase your cancer risk are postmenopausal hormones, higher body weight and family history. Susan G. Komen for the Cure lists possible causes, like meat consumption, stress and larger breast size, but these are supported with very limited data.

Every 11 pounds you gain as an adult may increase your risk of postmenopausal breast cancer by 3 to 5 percent, according to American Institute for Cancer Research. Introduce omega-9s (almonds, avocados and olive oil), lignans (beans, oats and flaxseed) and Vitamin D for a healthy breast diet.

While red wine can be good for you, this study found that it could increase the risk of cancer in women ages 25 to 42.

Aspirin may decrease your chances of breast cancer a second time, studies suggest. Want to know more about your personal risk? Use this assessment calculator.

Bonus PINK Link: Now that you know about your cancer risk, find out if your high-powered career puts you at greater risk for heart disease.

By Muriel Vega

“The greatest wealth is health.” Virgil