National Women's Health Week--Breast Cancer Risk

The Women’s Health website offers the recommendation for a breast screening to be done every 2 years after age 50.  If you are at risk for breast cancer (family members with that diagnosis), your doctor will make recommendations appropriate to your situation. 

What are risk factors for breast cancer? 

Some risk factors we cannot control or alter.  As we age (over age 50), our risk of breast cancer goes up.  A woman who had prior breast cancer faces an increased risk.  A women faces an increased risk of breast cancer if family members (mother, sister, daughter) have been diagnosed with breast cancer.  (Some women deal with inherited cell changes which increase their chances of breast cancer.)\

Other risk factors we can alter:

Researchers believe “the chance of getting breast cancer after menopause is higher in women who are overweight or obese...The more alcohol a women drinks, the greater her risk of breast cancer…Women who are not physically active throughout life may have an increased risk of breast cancer.  Strenuous exercise for more than four hours per week may help lower breast cancer risk…Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of breast cancer.”  More information can be found at Womenshealth.gov  http://www.womenshealth.gov/breast-cancer/risk-factors-prevention/  Talk to your doctor about your risks and explore ways you can protect your breasts from cancer. 

As women, we care for our loved ones.  Are you taking good care of your body?