Who is at risk for breast cancer?

Everyone is at risk for breast cancer. The two most important risk factors are being female and getting older. Most women diagnosed with breast cancer have no other known factors.

What can I do to reduce my risk of getting breast cancer?

There is no sure way to avoid breast cancer. But, you can do things that may improve your overall health. Maintain a healthy weight. Exercise and eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

My mother had breast cancer a few years ago. Does that mean that I will get breast cancer too?

We don’t know what causes breast cancer. But, most women who get breast cancer have no family history of the disease. If someone in your family has had breast cancer or you are concerned about your risk, talk to your doctor. Learn about your choices and ask when to start getting mammograms.

I am currently taking birth control pills. Do birth control pills increase my chance of developing breast cancer?

If you are currently taking birth control pills, your breast cancer risk is slightly increased. The increased risk from using birth control pills becomes less after you have stopped using them. After about 10 years your risk returns to normal.

Does drinking alcohol increase my chance of breast cancer?

Studies have shown that drinking alcohol can increase your risk for breast cancer.

My breasts feel lumpy and tender at certain times of the month. Does this increase my chance for breast cancer?

Breast lumpiness with tenderness or pain at certain times of the month is called fibrocystic breast changes. These breast changes are common, especially before your period, and do not increase your chance of getting breast cancer. Get to know the way your breasts look and feel. Learn what is normal for you. If you notice any change, see your doctor right away.

For more information or if you have other questions about your breast health or breast cancer, please call our breast care helpline (1-877-465-6636) or visit komen.org.

Susan G. Komen fought breast cancer with her heart, body and soul. Throughout her diagnosis, treatments and endless days in the hospital, she spent her time thinking of ways to make life better for other women battling breast cancer instead of worrying about her own situation. That concern for others continued even as Susan neared the end of her fight. Moved by Susan’s compassion for others and committed to making a difference, Nancy G. Brinker promised her sister that she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever.

That promise is now Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the global leader of the globalbreast cancer movement, having invested more than $1.9 billion since our inception in 1982. As the world’s largest grassroots network of breastcancer survivors and activists, we’re working together to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure®, and generous contributions from our partners, sponsors and fellow supporters, we have become the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer in the world.

For more information or if you have other questions about your breast health or breast cancer, please call our breast care helpline (1-877-465-6636) or visit komen.org.

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