Healthy Living Can Prevent Breast Cancer: Pikesville Area 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 10-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."

LifeBridge Health & Fitness, personalized diets, swimming pool, gym, indoor track, trainers, fitness classes and more are all available at this gym, voted Readers' Choice by Pikesville Patch. 

B-More Yoga, a variety of yoga classes, in the heart of downtown Pikesville.

Alturnative Fitness, this new health and fitness club is set to open soon in the Commerce Center at Hooks Lane. It wil include fitness and dietary coaching and more. Read blogs by fitness and wellness expert Linda Howard.

located in the Commerce Center at Hooks Lane, offers a variety of yoga and fitness classes, including some geared toward Jewish philosophy.

Masada Tactical, located in downtown Pikesville, offers self-defense classes based on the Israeli Defense Forces techniques, as well as fitness classes, including yoga and self-defense/dance for the entire family and for law enforcement officers and other professionals. Read blogs by owner BK Blankchtein, including about self defense in schools.

at 1809 Reisterstown Road, offers weekly runs beginning at its store at 6 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, as well as other fundraising or special runs throughout the year.

Fitness Expert Candace Grasso writes a fitness, health and foods column throughout the week. Read her recipes, tips, and inspirational stories.

And Pikesville stores offer fresh fruits, vegetables, kosher and halal options, including a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan foods at Seven Mile Market, to help reach your fitness and weight goals.

Check out these Pikesville stores as well:

• Trader Joe's
• Giant Food
• Shoppers Food
• Fresh Market
• Gourmet Again

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.

Weight loss programs are available in Pikesville, including:

Medifast Weight Control Centers and Weight Watchers.

Do you have other events or fitness and weight loss resources to add to this list? You can post photos to the article, or discuss them in the comments section, so we can add them to the story.

Pikesville Patch Editor Janet Metzner contributed to this report.