The following content is created in partnership with Jefferson Radiology. It does not reflect the work or opinions of NBC Connecticut's editorial staff. Click here to learn more about Jefferson Radiology.
There is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, but you can protect your breast health and reduce your risk. Read on for small changes and good habits you can easily work into your lifestyle.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight can increase breast cancer risk, especially after menopause. If you’re already at a healthy weight, stay there. If you’re carrying extra pounds, look for ways to lose them by adjusting your diet and raising your level of physical activity.
Be Physically Active
Regular exercise not only helps keep weight in check but studies have shown that women who are physically active for at least 30 minutes a day have a lower risk of breast cancer. Limit your time sitting down and aim for 75 minutes of vigorous activity or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, spread out across several days.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
A diet based on antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables, nuts, beans, whole grains and healthy fats has been proven to reduce the risk of developing many types of cancer. Incorporating a full-spectrum variety is key, so try to "eat the rainbow" of different colored produce. In addition, limit alcohol intake to one drink per day as women who have two to three alcoholic drinks per day have a 20% higher risk of breast cancer than women who don’t drink at all.
Find Out Your Family History
If you have a mother or sister who developed breast or ovarian cancer or multiple family members who developed breast, ovarian or prostate cancer, you may have a higher risk of breast cancer. There are special steps you can take to protect yourself, so talk to a doctor or genetic counselor who can help you understand your family history.
Don’t Forget Screening
Studies show that annual breast cancer screening saves lives—not by preventing the disease but by finding it early on when it’s most treatable. Advanced 3D mammography has emerged as the new standard of care, offering more accurate results with fewer false positives than standard 2D mammography. Best of all, it's covered by insurance in the State of Connnecticut.
With advanced 3D imaging, radiologists can detect cancer at a much earlier stage and when it is most treatable. When breast cancer is found early, the 5-year survival rate is almost 100%. Jefferson Radiology makes it easy to stay on top of your breast health. Click here to learn more about the advantages of 3D mammography and to make an appointment at one of Jefferson Radiology's nine conveniently located facilities.
