Breast Cancer
Here are some things to consider doing. Some items may not be applicable to you.
Approx. 44,000 women die of breast cancer each year
Prevention:
- Exercise vigorously at least three times a week
This has been shown to reduce breast cancer 40% - Ask your doctor if using birth control pills might reduce your risk
- Avoid alcohol
One study indicated a 10% increase in risk of breast cancer for every alcoholic drink you have daily
After age 35:
If you have any of the following risk factors for breast cancer:
- Family history of breast cancer
- Having non-cancerous breast disease
- Prior breast cancer
- Have especially dense breast tissue
- Had first child after you were 30 years old
- Ask your doctor about getting your first mammogram and getting mammograms annually for the rest of your life
After age 40:
- Ask your doctor about getting your first mammogram and getting mammograms annually for the rest of your life
Treatment:
If you have a strong family history of breast cancer:
- Ask your doctor about getting a genetic test to determine if you have the defective gene which causes ovarian cancer
- Contact the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland to get referred to a qualified genetic counselor
- Consult with a qualified genetic counselor
EXPLORE: Health
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