Ms. Shila Neupane Vice President of Nepal IHRO and Peace Ambassador is leading the Breast Cancer awareness Campaign across South Asian Countries for the year 2024-2025 .
Breast cancer rates among South Asian women vary by factors such as lifestyle, cultural attitudes, and access to healthcare.
South Asians are among the fastest-growing ethnic minorities in the United States, and breast cancer rates are rising along with the population. Trivedi said incidence of the disease is increasing at a rate of 1.9% a year, with 1 in 8 South Asian women in the United States facing a lifetime breast cancer risk…..
In her awareness Campaign She quote- While breast cancer cannot be completely prevented, certain lifestyle choices can reduce the risk. Here are some ways to lower the chances of developing breast cancer:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity, especially after menopause, can increase breast cancer risk. A balanced diet and regular exercise help in weight management.
- Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise, such as 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days, can reduce breast cancer risk.
- Limit Alcohol: Higher alcohol consumption is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. It’s advisable to limit intake or avoid it altogether.
- Breastfeed, if possible: Breastfeeding for several months can slightly reduce the risk of breast cancer.
- Avoid Smoking: Smoking is linked to many cancers, including breast cancer. Quitting smoking reduces the risk.
- Limit Hormone Therapy: Long-term use of hormone therapy during menopause increases the risk. If hormone therapy is necessary, consult with a doctor to limit the dose and duration.
- Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (like olive oil) can lower the risk.
- Regular Screenings: Early detection through regular mammograms or clinical breast exams is crucial. Women over 40, or those with a higher risk, should consult their doctor for appropriate screening schedules.
- Know Your Family History: If there’s a family history of breast cancer, genetic counseling and testing may be recommended to assess your risk.
- Reduce Exposure to Radiation and Environmental Pollution: Avoid unnecessary radiation exposure, and try to minimize exposure to environmental pollutants.
- While these steps can help reduce risk, regular health check-ups and being aware of any changes in your body are essential for early detection and intervention….” quote close.
Ms. Shila Neupane will be coming to India soon in awareness campaign. Her study, called South Asian Family Approaches to Disease, or SAFAD, involved interviews conducted via video conference and follow-up surveys with 26 breast cancer survivors and caregivers in the United States.
The lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 11% for women of Asian/Pacific Islander descent. South Asian women are among the ethnicities with the highest risk of breast cancer