Given that this is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we spoke to Dr. Amit Bhargava, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncologist, Batra Hospital and Medical Research Centre, New Delhi who shared that most of his cases were now shifting towards women in their late thirties. He gave us some tips to help prevent breast cancer, which is now seen in 1 in 30 women in the metropolitan cities of India.

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Modify your diet

You need to maintain a balanced, healthy diet with an adequate intake of proteins, vitamin D, C, B12 and minerals. Eat as many leafy veggies, fresh fruits, and sip on green tea for your daily dose of antioxidants.

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Take time out to exercise

Be it sports, swimming or walking, you must exercise every day. It keeps your body weight in check and avoid metabolic syndromes like hypertension, fatty liver and so on. Try to meditate for 5 to 15 minutes to reduce stress levels, which is one of the major factors that can lead to breast cancer.

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Annual screenings

Start by a Google search of self-breast examination and do it once every 3 months. Next, opt for a clinical breast exam with a gynecologist or an oncologist once a year. If you're younger and at a high-risk of breast cancer (if it runs in your family), opt for an MRI, which is low on radiation and gives a clear picture after professional consultation. Go for annual mammograms after you turn 40.