Almost a third of breast cancer cases are linked to obesity and a lack of exercise, a new study revealed today.
Breast cancer charity Europa Donna Ireland said lifestyle factors have a massive influence on the risk of the disease.
Chairperson Christine Murphy Whyte urged women to take small steps to protect themselves against the cancer, which affects one in 12 women.
"Appropriate lifestyle changes such as avoiding too much weight gain, increasing physical activity and eating a well-balanced diet where possible can reduce the risk of breast cancer," she said at the launch of Breast Health
Day.
"There are many simple steps that women can take in order to improve their health which may reduce the risk of breast cancer in the long run."
A study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) showed 25 per cent to 33 per cent of breast cancer cases were linked to excess body weight and physical
inactivity.
Some 2,000 Irish women are diagnosed with the disease every year which results in 650 deaths.
Good nutrition, daily exercise and limiting alcohol and red meat intake are some of the ways women can protect themselves, according to the charity.
It also encouraged women to have regular mammograms to detect and treat the disease as early as possible.
The charity has published a Guide to Breast Health on its website to raise awareness of breast health.
Europa Donna is a European breast cancer coalition which has advocacy groups in 41 countries.
PA