Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Hong Kong. Female breast cancer cases diagnosed in Hong Kong has doubled from 1,152 in 1993 to 3,014 in 2010. On average, about 8 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every day. The number of male cases has also increased from 4 to 11.
The risk of breast cancer increases with age. It is uncommon in women below 40 years old. 70% of all breast cancers are diagnosed in women above 40 years of age. However, if the cancer is detected early, the 5-years and beyond survival rate is about 95%. There is no answer yet to what causes breast cancer though researchers believe that imbalances in the female hormone – oestrogen, is responsible for many cases of breast cancer.
Possible risk factors
Lack of regular exercise, heredity, early menstruation / late menopause, no breast feeding, oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, obesity, alcohol consumption, food additives, stress and chemicals.
Breast self-examination
This is very important on a monthly basis after 20 years of age, preferable the first week after each menstrual period ends. Please obtain instruction from a health or wellness professional.
Applied Nutrition
| Supplement | Benefit | Suggested Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | Basic building block and necessary party of living cells in the body. Produces collagen and promotes organ repair. | 1 scoop, 2x daily |
| Calcium + magnesium | 2 tabs, 3x daily |
|
| Multivitamin + minerals + phytonutrients | Provides general nutritional supplementation and strong antioxidant effects. | As indicated on packaging |
| B Complex | 2 tabs, 3x daily |
|
| Vitamin C + bioflavonoids | Destroys free radicals, boosts immune system and provides inflammation and antioxidant protection | 2 tabs, 3x daily |
| Ginkgo biloba + ginseng | Slows tumour growth | 2 tabs, 2x daily |
| Green tea extract | Slows tumour growth | 2 tabs, 2x daily |
| Co-enzyme Q10 | ||
As with all cancers, reduce red meat/dairy and increase fruit/vegetable intake. Increase consumption of organic ginger, ginseng, green tea, peppermint and soy products.