Breast cancer is on every woman’s mind. But we hope to turn worrisome thoughts into positive actions with these risk-reducing tips from one of Florida hospital’s leading breast surgeons, Olga Ivanov, MD.
“Human growth hormone slows down the aging process and sleep allows our bodies to rejuvenate it. Sleep also regulates cortisol to lessen its negative stress-related effects that can increase breast cancer risk.”
“Exercise is protective against cancer. It helps our bodies “turn off” genes that initiate or cause cancer and “turn on” protective genes that prevent cancer,” states Ivanov.
“Some studies suggest that these foods have similar cancer-fighting properties compared to anti-cancer medications,” says Ivanov.
Green tea without sugar (one to two cups per day)
Ground flax seeds (one tablespoon per day)
Cabbage
Seaweed
Ivanov explains, “Breast cancer cells can have epinephrine receptors, so the more stress that we have, the more our bodies can potentially “feed” cancer cells.” She recommends daily stress reduction practices, such as 15 minutes of meditation or yoga.
“Get your annual exams to help you and your doctors track your health trends, assess your risks, and develop tailored screening schedules, such as mammograms,” recommends Ivanov.
Dr. Ivanov pleas: “Learn your body – do your breast exam on a regular basis. If there is something that feels different to you, bring it up to your physician.”
Ivanov concludes, “Women are great about supporting one another, so connect with the fellow women in your life and celebrate healthy practices.”
To schedule your mammogram today, call 407-543-4399 or .