Breast Cancer Prevention and Recovery The Role of Nutrition and Lifestyle

In Pakistan, thousands of women face the challenge of breast cancer each year. While some lose their battle, many emerge as strong survivors. This journey, from diagnosis to recovery, is deeply shaped by advocacy, an essential pillar of support that can change lives.

October marks the international observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Across the globe, campaigns, seminars, workshops, and conferences unite to spread vital knowledge, ensuring even the most remote communities receive accurate information and hope.

Patients’ Aid Foundation at JPMC, one of Pakistan’s oldest and largest hospitals, has been a steadfast pillar of hope, creating awareness, continuously upgrading access to world class, free diagnostics & treatment and essential medicines to Breast Cancer Patients. Thanks to their dedicated advocacy and care, breast cancer patients in Pakistan now have hope with availability of free, advanced diagnostics including mammogram, ultrasound, PET Scan, OPD, Surgery, Radiation therapy and more at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC). With their upcoming project Bilquis & Abdul Sattar Edhi (BASE) Breast Cancer Bay to be exclusively run by women will provide free diagnostics and treatment to 160 women every day. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss ways to protect yourself, recognize early symptoms, and understand when to seek the help you need.

What is Breast Cancer? 

Breast cancer is a condition where abnormal cells in the breast begin to multiply uncontrollably. These cells can form a lump or mass, which may spread to nearby tissues or even other organs through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Most breast cancers start in the milk ducts or lobules, which are involved in producing and delivering milk.

Breast cancer mainly affects women but can also occur in men. Early signs include lumps, breast shape changes, or nipple discharge. Regular self exams, clinical screenings, and mammograms are vital for early detection, greatly improving treatment success.

In Pakistan, especially in underserved and rural regions, many women face barriers like lack of awareness, cultural stigma, and limited access to medical facilities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a large number of cases go undiagnosed until the cancer reaches an advanced stage, primarily due to delays in seeking care. 

Patients’ Aid, with the support of the Edhi Foundation, is building a Breast Cancer Bay to support women battling breast cancer. Click here to read more about it.

What Causes Breast Cancer? (Risks & triggers) 

Breast cancer doesn’t have a single cause, it often develops due to a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

1. Genetic Mutations: Inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes greatly increase breast cancer risk, especially in families with a history of breast or ovarian cancer.

2. Family History and Personal History: Having a first-degree relative with breast cancer, especially if diagnosed young, raises your risk. Also, previous breast cancer in one breast increases the chance of it occurring in the other.

3. Hormonal Factors: Long-term hormone exposure like early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone therapy, increases breast cancer risk by affecting estrogen and progesterone levels.

4. Lifestyle and Environmental Risks: Several modifiable risk factors for breast cancer are linked to everyday lifestyle choices:

• Unhealthy diets and excess body fat after menopause raise inflammation and hormones, increasing breast cancer risk.
• A sedentary lifestyle has been associated with increased risk.
• Especially after menopause, being overweight raises the risk due to increased estrogen levels stored in fat tissue. 
• Though more commonly linked to other cancers, smoking may also increase breast cancer risk, particularly in younger women.

5. Radiation Exposure; Exposure to radiation, especially during childhood or early adulthood, can increase the risk of breast cancer later in life. 

6. Age and Gender: Being a woman and growing older are the most significant risk factors. Most breast cancer cases are diagnosed in women over 50.

Though some breast cancer risks like age and genetics are unavoidable, many can be reduced through healthy nutrition and lifestyle. 

According to the American Cancer Society, many diagnoses are associated with modifiable risk factors like diet. Additional research suggests that as many as 50% to 70% of cases may be influenced by such lifestyle-related factors.

Link Between Diet, Lifestyle, and Breast Cancer Risk

Daily choices can influence your chances of developing breast cancer.

• Unhealthy diet and breast cancer: Diets high in saturated fats and low in fiber may increase breast cancer risk.
• Obesity and breast cancer: Being overweight, especially after menopause, raises estrogen levels and cancer risk.
• Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle is a known risk factor for breast cancer in women.
• Processed foods and breast cancer: Diets rich in processed meats and sugary foods may contribute to inflammation and cancer development.
• Breast cancer prevention through lifestyle changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce risk.
• Best diet for breast cancer prevention: A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats supports hormonal balance and lowers risk.

Breast Cancer and Age:

A 2020 study by Dr. Walter Willett (Breast Cancer Research Foundation) found that women over 50 who lost and maintained at least 10 pounds reduced their breast cancer risk by 32%, highlighting the importance of weight management.

A balanced diet rich in antioxidants (vitamins C, E, carotenoids) helps protect cells from DNA damage. High fiber intake lowers risk by regulating blood sugar and estrogen levels, and supports a healthy gut microbiome that may influence cancer risk.

Other protective nutrients include vitamin D, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, and soy products, which recent research shows may reduce breast cancer risk despite previous concerns.

Diet and Lifestyle Changes Proven to Reduce Breast Cancer Risk

Adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle can significantly lower the risk of breast cancer. Focus on:

• Maintaining a healthy weight through regular physical activity and balanced calorie intake.
• Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains rich in antioxidants and fiber.
• Including nutrient-rich foods like vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and soy products.
• Reducing processed foods and sugars that may increase inflammation.

Simple changes in diet and lifestyle, such as losing excess weight, eating nutrient-dense foods, staying active, and avoiding harmful habits, can play a crucial role in preventing breast cancer. 

How You Can Help Patients’ Aid Fight Breast Cancer in Pakistan

You can make a real difference in the fight against breast cancer by supporting or joining health initiatives led by Patients’ Aid. Recently, Patients’ Aid organized Bike for a Cause 2, a powerful awareness campaign to educate communities about breast cancer and the importance of early detection.

Click here to learn more about Bike for a Cause 2 and its impact.

Every donation, big or small, brings hope to women battling breast cancer. Patients’ Aid ensures that every rupee goes directly to those who need it most, making your contribution truly meaningful.

Click here to read inspiring stories of breast cancer survivors.

Help us spread the word, share this blog with your friends and family to raise awareness. Visit the Patients’ Aid website for more information and discover how you can contribute to saving lives.

Together, let’s empower women, support survivors, and build a healthier, stronger Pakistan.