1. Move it! Compared to no physical activity, exercising four hours a week has been
reported to decrease risk by over 40 percent.
2. Avoid having more than one drink of alcohol per day.
3. Be aware that taking birth control pills for five years or longer can slightly increase
your risk for breast cancer.
4. Eat right—a low fat, high fiber diet with lots of fruits and veggies may decrease risk by
15 to 20 percent.
5. Weigh your risks and benefits before taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT)—
recent use of combination hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been shown to
increase breast cancer risk, with higher risk associated with longer use.
6. If you do not smoke cigarettes, do not start. If you do smoke, ask your doctor for
help in quitting.
7. All women should become familiar with both the appearance and feel of their
breasts so that they notice any changes and have a physician-performed clinical
breast exam at least every three years.
8. Women 50 years of age and older should have yearly screening mammograms in
addition to yearly clinical breast exams.
9. Family history? Consult your doctor about receiving annual screening mammograms
starting at an early age.
10. Keep a healthy attitude and maintain your emotional health.