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Small daily habits can make a big difference
Breast cancer continues to be one of the most common cancers among Indian women, accounting for a large proportion of new cancer diagnoses each year. While genetic and hormonal factors play a role, researchers increasingly agree that lifestyle factors — particularly sleep and diet — have a significant impact on breast cancer risk.
The Overlooked Power of Sleep
In India’s fast-paced urban lifestyle, sleep is often sacrificed in the name of productivity. Late-night screen use, shift work in hospitals and IT industries, and long commutes have all contributed to widespread sleep deprivation, especially among women juggling work and family roles. However, poor sleep is not just about fatigue — it can directly affect hormonal balance and cancer risk.
Melatonin, a hormone produced during sleep, regulates the body’s internal clock and has a natural anti-cancer effect by controlling cell repair and suppressing tumor growth. When sleep is shortened or irregular, melatonin levels drop, disturbing hormonal harmony and weakening the body’s natural defense mechanisms.
Studies show that women who sleep fewer than six hours per night face almost double the risk of developing breast cancer compared with those who sleep seven to eight hours. Night-shift workers, whose body clocks are constantly disrupted, are particularly vulnerable. Maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a quiet and dark sleeping environment, and avoiding screens before bedtime can go a long way in restoring the body’s natural rhythm.
Food as Medicine
Diet is the other crucial pillar of prevention. In India, rapid urbanization has led to higher consumption of processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and trans fats — all of which promote inflammation and weight gain, known risk factors for several cancers including breast cancer.
A diet rich in traditional, plant-based foods can have protective benefits. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, and lean proteins such as fish and lentils provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce cellular stress. Including foods rich in phytoestrogens — such as soy, flaxseeds, and chickpeas — can help regulate estrogen levels naturally.
Healthy fats from sources like mustard oil, olive oil, nuts, and seeds also support hormone balance and reduce inflammation. On the other hand, excessive sugar, fried snacks, and refined oils can trigger long-term damage that increases cancer susceptibility.
Two Sides of the Same Coin
Good sleep and good nutrition reinforce each other. Lack of sleep can increase cravings for high-calorie foods, while an unhealthy diet can worsen sleep quality. Together, they shape the body’s metabolism, immunity, and hormonal balance — all key players in cancer prevention.
Empowering Change
While age and heredity are beyond our control, lifestyle choices remain firmly within our hands. Prioritizing seven to eight hours of quality sleep, eating home-cooked balanced meals, and staying physically active can collectively reduce the risk of breast cancer. These are not drastic changes but small, consistent habits that add up to big results.
In the end, prevention is not about perfection but persistence. By respecting our body’s need for rest and nourishment, women can take meaningful steps to protect their health and lead longer, more vibrant lives — one good night’s sleep and one wholesome meal at a time.
Dr. Ashwin K R HOD – Department of Surgical Oncology, Aster Whitefield Hospital & Consultant – Surgical Oncology and Gynecological Oncology, Aster Whitefield Hospital.
