Alarming rise in breast cancer cases in India: Learn these prevention tips

New Delhi: Breast cancer is a global disease and is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. It is also the second leading cause of cancer death in women - after lung cancer.

In India, breast cancer is the most common cancer and also the top cancer killer among women. With India now witnessing a dramatic rise in breast cancer cases, there has been an increasing incidence of the disease in younger age groups. India figured in among the top three countries bearing the global breast cancer burden.

Breast cancer develops in the form of lumps within the breast tissue. Take the following steps to prevent or reduce your risk of developing breast cancer:

• Increasing the intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains while limiting fat intake
• Minimising intake of cured, pickled and smoked foods
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Taking alcohol moderately
• Not smoking
• Avoiding exposure to radiation and environmental pollutants
• Self-examination of breast for any changes in its size, shape or appearance
• Undergoing mammography to detect irregularity in the breast tissue
• New mothers should feed their child for the first year at least.

There is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, however, adopting a healthier lifestyle can definitely help lower your risk.