Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024: 5 Dos And Don'ts For Breast Cancer Self-Care And Recovery

According to the Global Cancer Observatory, IARC-WHO, 2022, breast cancer is the most common type of cancer globally with estimated mortality cases of 665255 for the year 2022 among females. Furthermore, India ranks highest in the number of estimated breast cancer deaths (98,337) for the year 2022 among females. The aforementioned data states the dire need to spread awareness about breast cancer. In light of the same, we spoke to Dr Vaishali Zamre, Director, Breast Cancer Centre, Andromeda Cancer Hospital, Sonipat about the dos and don’ts of breast cancer self care and recovery.

Dr Vaishali Zamre said, “Breast cancer is the commonest cause of cancer affecting women. The treatment for breast cancer consists of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and others. The treatment can extend from 7-8 months to a year. After completion of treatment, patients are advised regular follow-ups. During the recovery phase, patients are advised to abide by certain rules to ensure quick recovery.”

Dos For Breast Cancer Self Care And Recovery

Here are the Dos for breast cancer self care and recovery:

• Maintain a healthy diet rich in proteins, minerals and fibre content.
• Maintain a regular exercise routine.
• Continue daily exercises especially shoulder exercises on the side of the disease.
• Take oral anti-cancer medications regularly.
• Do routine household chores if possible.
• Attend follow-up clinic visits regularly.
• Do regular breathing exercises, yoga, and pranayama.
• Report any unusual symptoms immediately to your oncologist.
• Take calcium and vitamin supplements as advised by your oncologist.
• Use a snugly fitting bra after breast conservation surgery.
• Continue medications for other ailments like hypertension or diabetes etc under the supervision of your physician.

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Don’ts For Breast Cancer Self-Care And Recovery

Here are the don’ts for breast cancer self-care and recovery:

• Keep a check on your weight. Try to avoid weight gain after treatment.
• Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking.
• Do not take any over the counter medication or any alternative treatment without consulting your oncologist.
• Try to avoid stress.
• Avoid trauma to the arm on the side of the disease.
• Wear firm-grip footwear to avoid falls on slippery grounds.
• Do not indulge in fad dieting.

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Follow these dos and don’ts for quick recovery.

Image Courtsey: Freepik