Patient Relations
Every October, health campaigns worldwide focus on educating people about the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is a disease that occurs when breast tissue multiples and grows out of control, forming a lump or tumor. Most breast cancers occur due to breast tissue aging. Fewer than 10 percent of cases are from inherited breast cancer genes. Breast cancer occurs in men and women, but the majority of cases occur in women over the age of 60.
Tips from our Hematologist and Oncologist, Dr. Osama Halaweh
Obesity raises the risk of breast cancer. Avoid gaining weight over time, and try to maintain a body-mass index of 25 or less.
Maintain a well-balanced diet rich in vegetables and fruit. Eat lean protein such as fish or chicken breast and eat red meat in moderation.
Research suggests that increased physical activity, 30-minutes’ walk 5 days a week, reduces overall breast-cancer risk.
Women who breast-feed their babies for at least a year in total have a reduced risk of developing breast cancer later.
In general women age 40 or more are encouraged to start breast cancer screening. In JHAH, a yearly mammogram is highly recommended. Your primary care physician can help arrange this for you.
Try to learn more about your family history of breast cancer as this may increase your risk of having breast cancer and would require further genomic testing and to start screening at an earlier age.
