How to Prevent Breast Cancer

More than 200,000 people are newly diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Knowing how to prevent this insidious disease, which occurs when tumors form in the breast ducts or glands, is something everyone--men and women alike--should know. Fortunately, information on prevention and treatment is fairly easy to find.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Take Action

1. Ask your doctor, if you have had a breast tumor in the past, how often you should be checked for recurrence of the disease. Since breast cancer patients are now surviving in much greater numbers, recurrence of tumors is becoming increasingly common.
2. Make and keep your breast cancer screening appointments. Don't rely on your primary care physician to remind you when you need to be screened. Ask questions regarding how frequently she wants you to be tested.
3. Prevent future cases of breast cancer by joining a volunteer group or donating to an organization such as the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation (see "Resources" below).

Be Familiar With Vital Facts

4. Know whether you are a member of a high-risk group. Since prevention and early diagnosis are so critical in cancer prevention, understanding your level of risk is extremely important.
5. Learn the primary risk factors for breast cancer. Studies have shown that Caucasians, women who had their first child in their late 30s, smokers and those with a family history of cancer are at higher risk. Your doctor may be able to tell you about other high-risk groups. Women who have had breast cancer before are also at risk of recurrence.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your doctor if your lifestyle is one that will help you fight all diseases, including breast cancer. Diet and exercise play an important role in prevention.
• The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) offers an online informational document on the application of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to employees suffering from cancer (see "Resources" below).
• Breast cancer can be emotionally devastating. Find a support group at your local hospital or link to one online (see "Resources" below).