UNPLUGGED: What can one do to reduce chances of getting breast cancer

To help reduce the risk of getting breast cancer:

• Be aware of your family history and discuss any concerns with your health care provider.
• Discuss the use of hormone replacement therapy with your health care provider.
• If possible, breastfeed your baby. Studies have shown that breastfeeding for longer periods of time lowers the risk of getting breast cancer.
• Stay at a healthy weight.
• Exercise regularly.
• Discuss the risks and benefits of medical imaging, such as CT scans, with your health care provider to avoid unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation.

Regular check-ups and screening tests can find breast cancer at an earlier stage, when treatment works best. The most important action women can take is to have routine breast cancer screenings. 

• Choose a healthy diet to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Eat more vegetables, fruits and whole grains and eat less red and processed (e.g., bacon, sausage, luncheon meats, hot dogs) meats. These actions may reduce the risk of developing many types of cancer and other diseases.
• Do not smoke. If you currently smoke, quit. Avoid exposure to second hand smoke. For more information on quitting smoking.
• Talk with your health care provider about recommended screenings for other types of cancer.