Frequently Asked Questions
Will A Healthy Diet Keep Me From
Having Breast Cancer?
Eat a low-fat, nutritious diet. A high-fat diet increases the risk of breast
cancer. Fat triggers the hormone estrogen, that fuels tumor growth. Fill your
diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Does Smoking Cause Breast Cancer?
Most studies have not found smoking to cause breast cancer. One recent study
indicated there may be a link. Studies of the relationship of breast cancer
to cigarette smoking and second-hand cigarette smoke are still under study.
However, smoking decreases your survival rate once you have been diagnosed
with breast cancer.
Does Alcohol Increase My Risk Of Breast
Cancer?
One or two drinks a day slightly increases your risk of breast cancer. The
more alcohol you drink, the higher your risk.
Are Oral Contraceptives A Link To Breast Cancer?
There is an increased risk of breast cancer for women under the age of 35 who
have been using birth control pills for 10+ years.
How Often Should I Do Breast Self-Exam (BSE)?
Give yourself a breast self-exam once a month. Look for any
changes in breast tissue, such as changes in size, a lump,
dimpling or puckering of the breast, or a discharge from the
nipple. 8 out of 10 lumps are not cancerous. Learn how to give
yourself a BSE here.
Does A Family History Put Me At High Risk?
If you have a grandmother, mother, sister, or daughter who has
been diagnosed with breast cancer, this does put you in a higher
risk group. Have a baseline mammogram at least five years
before the age of breast cancer onset in any close relatives. See
your physician at any sign of unusual symptoms.
Are Mammograms Painful?
Mammography compresses the breasts and can sometimes cause
a slight discomfort for a very brief time. It may be more
comfortable for you to have a mammogram a week after your
menstrual cycle when your breasts are less tender.
Does My Menstrual History Affect My Breast Cancer Risk?
You are at a higher risk if you began your menstrual cycle before the age of
12, you have no children, you had your first child after the age of 30, or
you began menopause after the age of 55.
How Often Should I Go To My Doctor For A Checkup?
You should have an annual physical. If any unusual
symptoms or changes in your breasts occur before your
scheduled visit to the doctor, do not hesitate to see the doctor
immediately.
