Life after Breast Cancer

Taking care of your overall health and well-being can help you go on living life to its fullest.

Living Health

In this section, you'll find helpful information on diet and nutrition, exercise, maintaining your emotional health, managing menopause, osteoporosis as well as tips on ways to help a loved one with breast cancer stay healthy and strong.

Your physical health:

The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation recommends the following routine medical care for women who have undergone treatment for breast cancer. Follow-up office visits with your physician for a complete physical examination, every 4 to 6 months for the first 5 years following treatment, then every 12 months Annual mammograms of the contralateral breast (the breast unaffected by cancer) for women who have had a mastectomy Annual mammograms of both breasts for women who have had a lumpectomy Monthly self-examinations of both breasts Annual pelvic exam.

Eating Right

Practicing good nutrition is beneficial for everyone. It's particularly important for women who've completed their initial treatment because obesity may raise a woman's risk of recurrence. A well-balanced diet will also give you the energy required to do the things you love. Get 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Eat whole grains. Take a daily multi-vitamin. Limit alcohol to one drink a day. Cut down on "bad" fats (saturated and trans fats) and try to eat more "good" fats (polyunsaturated and monosaturated) like olive oil, nuts, avocado, etc.

Getting Fit

Studies show that women diagnosed with early breast cancer have an improved quality of life, decreased fatigue and improved fitness in as little as 12 weeks of following an exercise program, three times a week. Fitting exercise into your daily routine is the easiest and best way to ensure that you continue your workouts. Try not to do the same exercises week after week though. The more you vary your exercise regime the more likely you are to stick with it. Keep in mind that it's always important to speak with your doctor before starting or altering an exercise program.

Some suggestions for staying fit:

Take a brisk walk around the neighborhood. Carry some hand weights so that you work your lower body as well as your upper body. Go swimming. Play tennis with a friend. Go to a yoga class. Hiking is a great way to get exercise and explore the outdoors. Ride a bike. Join a gym. Park the car in a spot that requires you to walk a greater distance than you normally would. Take the stairs rather than the elevator at the office. The possibilities are endless. BreastCancer.org. Healing Strategies During and After Breast Cancer Treatment. p.1, para 9. www.breastcancer.org/cmty_trans_2003_05.html. Accessed July 16, 2004.