Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer

We all want to stay healthy and live well. While some breast cancer risk factors — like being a woman or getting older — can’t be changed, there are many things you can do to help lower your risk.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle makes a big difference. Keep your weight in a healthy range, eat a balanced diet, and stay active. Even simple habits like brisk walking for a couple of hours each week can help reduce your risk.

Other steps to consider:

• Breastfeed if you can. Nursing for several months may offer some protection.
• Cut down on fat. A low-fat diet may help with weight control and slightly lower your risk.
• Limit alcohol. Women should have no more than one drink a day.
• Quit smoking. Smoking may raise your risk and has many other health harms.
• Stay active. Movement supports overall health and may reduce breast cancer risk.
• Understand birth control risks. Pills may slightly raise your risk, but that risk goes down once you stop.
• Use caution with hormone therapy. If you use it for menopause symptoms, talk with your doctor about the safest approach.
• Use pesticides carefully. Some studies suggest a possible link to breast cancer.

If you have a family history of breast cancer, ask your doctor about genetic counseling or testing to better understand your risk.

Most importantly, keep up with recommended breast cancer screenings. Pay attention to any changes in your breasts and share them with your doctor right away. The earlier cancer is found, the more treatment options you’ll have.