10/22/2024
In my last post, we talked about some alarming breast cancer stats. Today, we talk about the good stuff: prevention!
Let's start with common sense: move more, eat less sugar/processed foods, and identify your risk factors through regular screening and genetic testing if needed.
A lesser known prevention, though, is limiting endocrine disruptors (a category of chemicals that alter the normal function of hormones), especially xenoestrogens.
Our endocrine system releases hormones that tell tissues what to do, but chemicals from the outside have the ability to mimic our natural hormones. This can have negative effects on hormone sensitive organs like the uterus and the breast, the immune and neurological systems, as well as general human development.
Xenoestrogens have estrogen-like effects and are stored in our fat cells. This can cause a condition called estrogen dominance, which is indicated in breast, prostate and testicular cancer, obesity, infertility, endometriosis, early onset puberty, miscarriages, and diabetes.
To reduce your exposure, look to reduce plastic use (especially plastics with BPA), switch to clean beauty products and sunscreens, avoid artificial fragrance in perfumes, lotions, candles, air fresheners, etc., eat organic when possible (Google "Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen for ideas!) and be mindful of insecticides and off-gassing from building materials.
I have several patients and friends fighting this beast, it is heartbreaking and scary. But they are strong, and have sooo many of us praying for them to win the fight.
