Healthy Living Can Prevent Breast Cancer

You might be able to find help fighting breast cancer and other types of cancers at your local grocery store and fitness centers, according to the research findings of Dr. Marian Neuhouser, Ph.D, RD. 

Dr. Neuhouser is a nutritional epidemiologist with a background in nutritional sciences. She is an investigator at Seattle’s Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Her research is focused on lifestyle factors such as nutrition and physical activity. Some factors may prevent breast and prostate cancer and improve survivorship in those diagnosed with cancer.  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year, more than 200,000 American women are diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 American women will die from breast cancer.

Dr. Neuhouser’s research has found that for postmenopausal women in particular, being overweight or obese may increase the risk for breast cancer.

Dr. Neuhouser explains, “After menopause, estrogens are synthesized by adipose tissue—the more adipose a woman has, the more estrogen she will make. Adipose cells also synthesize inflammatory factors, which have been linked to breast cancer.”

One of the most important things a woman at risk for breast cancer can do, says Dr. Neuhouser, is to “maintain a healthy weight."  

Merrimack has a lot of options for fun ways to stay in shape. Consider learning martial arts at any of a number of locations in Merrimack:

• Shawn Pacheco's Professional Martial Arts Academy
• Merrimack Karate Studio
• Strikeback Dynamic Defense Systems
• Shaolin Adapting Fist Kung Fu
• Inner Strength Martial Arts Academy

Gretchen Ricks, a local mom who shed 82 pounds in 14 months learning how to kickbox, is starting her fourth session of Kickboxing Moms at Shawn Pacheco's Professional Martial Arts Academy on Tuesday, Oct. 16. The twice a week, six week class, is $120 and includes childcare if your little ones aren't in school yet. Classes are Tuesdays and Fridays from 10-10:45 a.m. and continue through Nov. 23. (That's right, your last class of the session is the day after Thanksgiving. What a great way to burn off some extra calories!) For more information, contact Ricks at gretch8876@yahoo.com. You do not need to be a mom to participate.

You could also check out CrossFit Earned, a new gym that teaches one of the hottest workout programs sweeping the country right now.

Local dance studios Belinda Bridgeman Academy of Dance and Broadway Bound Performing Arts Center both offer adult dance classes and things like Zumba and yoga, or check out or NH Power Yoga for local yoga classes.

Later this month, check out another new way of staying in shape in Merrimack at which is sponsoring a fitness event to benefit the New Hampshire Breast Cancer Coalition. The event will feature pole fitness, yoga, pilates, a seminar on food nutrition and ways to get and stay healthy. The event will be Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 20 and 21 at Center Stage Pole Dance Fitness, 416 Daniel Webster Highway. Get more information at (603) 801-3032.

Given what the research indicates, Dr. Neuhouser says, “One of the most important things is that if a woman is overweight or obese, she should be advised to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Daily physical activity and following healthy eating habits with plentiful fruits and vegetables and minimal empty calories and fried foods will help achieve these goals.”

Dr. Neuhouser says while it can be challenging to lose weight, “Small changes can add up and make a big difference."

When it comes to getting active, Dr. Neuhouser says, "If someone is not used to physical activity, try a five to ten minute walk and gradually increase the time. Having physical activity partners or walking partners always helps. I know my soccer team will be waiting for me on the field, so even if I am tired or busy, I still show up."

When it comes to food, Dr. Neuhouser says, "Start with making one new food change each week. Instead of eating two cookies, eat just one.”

If you are concerned about your weight, Dr. Neuhouser suggests getting the support you need by asking your doctor for “ a referral to a reputable weight loss program.” For nutrition advice, Dr. Neuhouser recommends asking for a referral to a registered dietitian.