Subtle Breast Cancer Symptoms You May Be Ignoring (3 of 3)

Risk Factors To Consider For Prevention

Breast cancer is prevalent for a number of different reasons and factors. Sometimes it is due to age, while other times it is simply due to genetics. Individuals over the age of 50 are at greater risk, as are those who have genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2. Lifestyle also plays a huge role, as obesity, alcohol consumption, and being less active can all increase risks. Additionally, hormones are another huge factor in breast cancer development, specifically estrogen. Studies have shown that long exposure to estrogen can significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer.

The key to reducing these risks is to live your life the best way you can to prevent them. This means adopting a healthy lifestyle of eating better, exercising, and maintaining a healthy weight. And while we may all like to enjoy an occasional drink or two, limiting excessive alcohol consumption will drastically improve the odds of steering clear of the potential development of breast cancer. Another key factor for women who have or will have children is breastfeeding. Research shows that breastfeeding can protect against breast cancer as well.