According to Breastcancer.org, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer over the course of their lifetime. After skin cancer, breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among American women.
Lower Your Risk of being diagnosed with Breast Cancer
Studies have shown that there are steps that women can take to help lower their risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer, including:
- Conduct monthly self-exams: In addition to medical screenings, the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) and medical professionals recommend a monthly self-exam. To learn how to conduct a breast self-exam, check out this guide offered by NBCF. If you feel something, say something. Early detection is a key factor in the successful treatment of breast cancer.
- Modify your diet: Diet and nutrition have been proven contributors to about 30-40 percent of cancer diagnosis. Eliminating high sugar, salt, and fat options from your diet will help keep your energy high and your body healthy.
- Quit smoking: According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), smoking is a significant risk factor for breast and many other types of cancer. Eliminating tobacco from your life lowers your risk regardless of your age or how long you have been a smoker.
- Monitor alcohol intake: Research shows that drinking alcoholic beverages increases your risk of breast cancer and may damage DNA in your cells.
- Exercise more: Regular exercise of 30 minutes or more can also lower your risk factors for breast cancer.
Additional Resources
For more information on breast cancer and breast cancer awareness, check out these three articles on Benefits.gov:
- October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
- October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
- Find a Routine, get Screened.
To learn more about prevention tips, understanding your risks, post-diagnosis support, and treatment options, check out the Thinking Pink and Living Green column on BreastCancer.org. If you are looking for additional resources, we encourage you to take the Benefit Finder questionnaire to see what benefits you or a loved one may be eligible to receive.
