Marshall University

Department of Family and Community Health

Reducing Your Risk

There are several ways that you can help to lower your risk of breast cancer:

 

¨ Control weight and exercise—healthy food and drink choices will fuel your body with the right nutrients which will help fight disease and cancer.

¨ Drink alcohol only in moderation—research shows that increased amount of alcohol in a woman’s diet will increase her risk for getting breast cancer.

¨ Weigh the risks and benefits of HRT—HRT stands for hormone replacement therapy. Some women chose to take this for the symptoms associated with menopause. Talk to your doctor to find out if HRT is right for you.

¨ Know your family history of breast cancer—if your mother, sister or daughter has had breast cancer, you are at an increased risk. You may need more frequent screenings.

¨ Screening, screening, screening—every woman should have a yearly physical with her doctor which may include a clinical breast exam and a mammogram. Ask your doctor how  you can schedule your mammogram.