October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

Lower Your Risk of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer found in women in the United States and it is estimated there will be 226,870 new cases in women this year. (1,2) The following tips can help decrease a woman's risk of developing breast cancer:

• Get screened regularly- This includes mammography, clinical breast exam by a physician, as well as breast self exam. If you are between 40-49 years of age discuss with your physician when to begin mammograms. Between the ages of 50-74 mammograms should be done every 2 years. (1)
• Control your weight and exercise- Studies have shown an increased risk in postmenopausal obese women who did not use hormone therapy as well as a decreased risk in women who exercised more than 4 hours per week. (2)
• Know your family risk of breast cancer- If a close blood relative has had breast cancer discuss this with your doctor. Some types of gene alterations are inherited. (2)
• Discuss the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy with your doctor- Combination hormone therapy (estrogen & progestin) has been associated with increased breast cancer risk. (2)
• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink- Even an average of one drink per day increases a woman's risk of breast cancer 10%. (1)

1) http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/prevention.htm
2) http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/prevention/breast/HealthProfessional#Section_370