Breast cancer is a cancer that develops in the cells of breasts. It is a disease that largely affects women but men are also not immune. According to World Cancer Research Fund, breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer in women worldwide.
A recent study in Pakistan has declared breast cancer as the top cause of cancer deaths in females. The study has also revealed a five year incidence of 119,710 cases. It has also been observed that 23% of all the new cancer cases in Pakistan are of breast cancer.
Breast cancer is treatable if diagnosed in time, but the treatment is a long exhausting process. The chemotherapy and the surgeries can take a physical and mental toll on the patient. It is thus important to be equipped properly while battling this cancer.
Here are some ways to fight the breast cancer successfully.
Table of Contents
1-Research:
Treatment for breast cancer can be very daunting. A lot of procedures especially surgeries can be scary for a patient. Not understanding the treatment completely is likely to make the patient paranoid. In case of a dangerous illness such as breast cancer, the paranoia can also turn into death anxiety which can put any patient on edge.
To get rid of such anxieties, one thing that the patient can do is research. Read, read and then read some more about breast cancer. Learn about the treatment in as much depth as you can. The more you understand your condition, the more confident you will feel in the course of treatment that your oncologist has taken.
2-Stay active:
Breast cancer is complicated condition and the treatment usually continues for several months. Having to take medication and undergo chemotherapy for such a long period of time can be tiring. It is important that the patient stays active during this period.
Exercising regularly can help restore hormonal balance. Balanced hormones lead to elevated moods and prevent cancer depression. Staying active can also keep one distracted from one’s illness.
3-Diet:
It goes without saying that a healthy diet during and after treatment is mandatory. It is advisable that the patient seeks out a dietitian to get a diet plan. During treatment, eating healthy can help build immunity back up. After treatment, a good diet can reduce the risk of reoccurrence of the cancer.
A study by University of California, San Francisco, has revealed that a diet made up of plants mainly, can reduce the risk of breast cancer by 15%.
4-Self-image:
For diseases like breast cancer, where treatment can span over months, the patients’ will to continue is crucial for success. Chemotherapy can drastically change one’s appearance and mastectomy can alter one’s self-image. Such big differences in one’s appearances pre and post treatment can lead to lower self-esteem in patients and in some cases they may even stop treatment.
To keep one’s self-esteem intact, it is important to take steps to look good. Wearing nice clothes and taking care of basic hygiene can help one to maintain a positive self-image.
5-Weight:
Watching one’s weight is important during treatment. A sudden and rapid weight loss can further decrease patient’s immunity. Most of the times, chemotherapy reduces one’s appetite which can lead to serious weight loss. Despite the lack of appetite, eating properly should be made a priority as it can drastically improve recovery.
If you or a loved one is suffering from breast cancer, you should consult an oncologist at your earliest. You can also visit our website at oladoc.com to read up on breast cancer and look for top oncologists in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad.
You can also call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 to get directed to the specialists that are suitable for your specific concerns.
