Lowering your chances of having breast cancer
Find it early and care for it properly.
Steve Martinez, MD, Surgery
Breast cancer is the most common cancer found in women. It’s the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. But it can be cured if you find it early and care for it properly.
About one in eight American women will have breast cancer in her lifetime. Some things raise your chances of having breast cancer. They include age and family history, which you can’t change. But some things can be changed, like limiting alcohol and staying at a healthy weight.
You may have an increased chance of getting breast cancer if you:
- Have family members with breast cancer (like your mother or sister)
- Have already had breast cancer
- Started your period before age 12 and/or went through menopause after age 55
- Are older. The older you are, the higher your chances. At age 29, you have a one in 2,000 chance of having breast cancer. At age 59, your chances are one in 50.
- Are overweight or obese
- Regularly drink alcohol
Finding breast cancer early is extremely important. We recommend these screenings:
- Screening mammogram can help find breast cancer when it is easiest to care for. Talk to your doctor about when to have one.
- Breast exam done by a doctor or other health care provider. Ask your doctor when to have this exam.
- Breast self-exam is the best way for you to know how your breasts normally feel. By doing this, you will know if lumps or changes are new or have been there for a long time.
For more information, visit cancerpartnership.org.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice or a substitute for professional health care. You should consult an appropriate health care professional for your specific needs.