Healthy Living Can Prevent Breast Cancer: Will County Resources

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."  

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."

Looking for a place to go in Will County?

• Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital offers Zumba ® Fitness from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Mondays. The cost is $10 for drop-ins or $40 for five sessions; $5 express sessions are 6:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays. Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital is located at 500 Remington Blvd., Bolingbrook. Register at zoombombshell@hotmail.com.
• Consider joining a running club. The Plainfield Running Club welcome all level of runners. For more information, go to www.plainfieldrunningclub.org.
• Challenge yourself to compete in the LifeStyles Indoor Triathlon beginning at 7 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 18, at LifeStyles in the Bolingbrook Recreation & Aquatic Complex located at 200 S. Lindsey Lane. Swim for 10 minutes, cycle for 15 minutes and run for 15 minutes. This event is based on the number of miles you can travel during the allotted time. Triathletes are grouped in waves based on age and gender. You will be contacted during the week prior to the event with your time. First-time competitors and seasoned races are welcome. Fuel your competitive spirit. Fee is $35; $30 with resident ID. For more information, click here.

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.

Locally, you can find support managing your weight through weight loss programs.

• At the Osafo Healthcare Clinic, 440-J Quadrangle Drive, Bolingbrook, experienced staff assist patients to lose and maintain their weight loss goals under the supervision of the physician. The clinic's weight loss management program uses theeffective FDA approved medications in conjuction with a balanced diet and exercise. Call 630-226-0162 for more information or visitwww.osafohealthclinic.com.
• At Midwest Medical Weight Loss in Joliet, weight loss programs are tailored to each individual and supervised by the physician at each monthly visit. Visitwww.midwestmedicalweightloss.com for more information.
• A Beautiful You Weight Management and Medical Spa offers customized weight management programs, as well as aesthetic treatments. The facility is located at 15905 S. Frederick St., Suite 109, Plainfield. Visit abeautifulyouonline.com for more information.

Looking for a registered dietitian to help you on your journey?

The Executive Health nutritionist at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital is a registered dietitian with extensive and ongoing training related to food and nutrition. To arrange for an appointment, call 630-312-2263.