Breast Health

Breast Cancer: Reduce Your Risk

• Be alerted to involuntary risk factors. For example, women with a family history of breast cancer should remember they are at greater risk for cancer at that site. Speak with your physician about the appropriate screening for you.
• Have regular physical examinations and all recommended cancer checks and tests for your age group. Those aged 20 to 40 should have a cancer-related medical check-up every three years, and those over 40 should every year.
• Adjust your diet. While some foods increase the risk of cancer, other kinds apparently act as anti-carcinogens or cancer preventatives. Eat 5 servings per day of fruits and vegetables.
• Drink alcohol in moderation, or don't drink at all. One or two drinks a day should be the maximum.
• Avoid overexposure to direct sunlight. Use protective clothing and sunscreen preparations of SPF 20 or higher. Avoid the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when ultraviolet rays are strongest. Even one or two bad cases of sunburn can be dangerous in the long term, particularly for children. For those who want a "bronze" tanned look, self tanning lotions may provide a safe alternative to sunbathing. Never use a tanning bed.
• Maintain a healthy body weight. If you are overweight, consult your physician about a plan for weight loss.
• If you smoke or chew tobacco, quit. Many smokers who conquer the habit do so on their own. Group therapy programs, nicotine replacement therapy and hypnosis are helpful to some.
• Have dental and medical X-rays only as necessary. X-ray radiation doses are usually extremely low. However, before you agree to any X-ray, be satisfied that it is medically necessary or advisable.
• Use caution when handling any potentially harmful substance. Use protective clothing and safety equipment around industrial and home-use chemicals. Avoid breathing fumes from rubber and petroleum products, and dust from cotton and coal.