Minimizing Breast Cancer Risk

By Lisa Lilienfield, MD

The Kaplan Center for Intgerated Medicine

. http://www.kaplanclinic.com/

More Cancer Awareness Articles

Minimizing Breast Cancer Risk

Despite decades of research and billions of dollars spent, cancer remains one of the most feared diseases. In 2011, according to the American Cancer Society, more than half a million Americans succumbed to this dreaded disease. The good news is that, while not yet perfect, cancer risk testing can help your doctor proactively tailor patient care. This is an especially good approach for those at greater risk genetically or those taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and wish to reduce its potential risk. Here are a few recommendations

Breast Cancer Risk Testing

Estrogen Metabolism Assessment. Estrogen analysis is very valuable tool that evaluates how your body metabolizes and processes estrogen. Certain types of estrogen metabolites may increase the risk and worsen the prognosis of breast cancer. Your doctor can conduct the test on your blood or urine. This test can help determine whether lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, are warranted in reducing the level of unhealthy estrogens in the body.

BRCA Gene Testing for Women with a Strong Family History of Cancer. Certain gene mutations can indicate that some patients have a higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancers. Women who have inherited the harmful BRCA gene mutation are about five times more likely to develop breast cancer in their lifetimes than women without it. Knowing whether or not you carry the mutation can help you understand your personal risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer.

Change Your Life, Save Your Life

You can make lifestyle changes that may reduce your risk of cancer. According to a highly recommended book, Keeping aBreast by Dr. Khalid Mahmud, and other studies, you can lower your cancer risk by transforming your nutrition – follow a low glycemic diet, exercise – increasing lean muscle mass, adding a few targeted vitamins and supplements, and enjoying one glass of red wine a day. Scientifically well-regarded cancer prevention supplements include Omega-3 EPA-DHA fatty acids, Vitamin E (“whole E” only), Vitamin D3, Magnesium Glycinate, Folic Acid (folate) and fiber.

Another cancer fighting powerhouse is Indole-3 Carbinol (I3C), a supplement derived from the cancer fighting compounds in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, turnips, kale and cauliflower. I3C enables the body to metabolize estrogen in a positive way, especially important if tests indicate high risk or family history of breast cancer.

Seek an Integrative Medical Partnership

The causes of cancer are complex, and genetics and our environment can also play a large role. Cancer can strike even those who are doing all the right things, and preventing cancer can elude even those following the most healthful cancer prevention regimes. However, the examples of preventative measures outlined are backed by data that enable you to make healthy decisions.

If you have a concern about your cancer risk, a board certified integrative medical doctor can help. He or she can tailor a scientifically based vitamin and supplement plan to potentially lower your health risk, and promote a long, healthy, active life.