Most women diagnosed with breast cancer don’t have a family history of the disease. They are the first in their family to have it.
Nevertheless, people with a family history of Breast, Ovarian or Prostate cancer have an increased risk of #BreastCancer. The increased risk is likely due to genetic factors, but may also be due to shared lifestyle factors or other family traits.
Your father's side is equally important as your mother's side in determining your personal risk for developing breast cancer. There are several inherited genes linked with an increased risk of breast cancer, as well as other types of cancer.
Our friends at Bright Pink have a breast and ovarian cancer risk assessment tool accessible at
www.assessyourrisk.org.
How can we reduce our risk of developing breast cancer?
1. Get regular breast and health checks.
Do your monthly Breast Self Examinations. If you notice anything outside your normal, get it checked by a doctor immediately. If you are 40 and above, you should have annual mammograms. Breast MRIs are also recommended for women with dense breasts. If you have a family history of breast cancer, you should speak to your doctor about starting Mammograms earlier and having a personalised breast screening plan.
2. Maintain a healthy weight
In order to protect your breast health and overall health, maintain a healthy weight. By reducing excess fatty tissue, you'll eliminate some extra estrogen which can cause certain types of breast cancer.
3. Practice Breast Self Awareness
All women should get to know the normal look & feel of your breasts, learn the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and pay attention to any changes and see a doctor immediately.
4. Choose Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Eating a healthy diet, exercising, quiting alcohol, eliminating chemicals in personal care products and checking in with your body regularly are some ways you can lower your risk of developing breast cancer
Sources:
National Institutes of Health
Komen
Bright Pink
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