Breast Cancer Risk Factors
Breast cancer is one of the most common diseases a woman might face in her lifetime. It also is a disease that many women have many questions and fears about.
Typically, we look for women at risk who have a family history of breast cancer, particularly in a mother, sister or daughter. We look at the early age of first period, we look at women who've never been pregnant or never breast fed, as well as women who are overweight. We also look at diet and alcohol intake.
What can I do to reduce my risk of breast cancer?
One of the questions women have is, How can I keep myself from getting breast cancer? There are lifestyle changes that may help to reduce your risk. Women who exercise regularly (30 minutes of walking, 3 times a week or more), can reduce their risk for breast cancer.
Additionally, women should keep a healthy body weight and avoid excess body fat, if possible. Also, keep the use of alcohol to a moderate level, because as little as two drinks a day can increase your risk of breast cancer. There isn't evidence to link breast cancer risk to fat intake, but maintaining a balanced diet is always helpful.
Location
- Aiello Center at UM BWMC
203 Hospital Drive, #100
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Contact Us
For more information about The Aiello Breast Center, please call 410-553-8351.