One in eight women in the U.S. alone will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, making it extremely important to take prevention seriously. Even though no breast cancer prevention method is guaranteed to keep you cancer-free, preventative care can help reduce your risk, promote early detection, and deliver more positive outcomes if breast cancer does occur.
Prevention Strategies
Early detection is critical to the successful treatment of breast cancer. All women should perform regular breast self-exams to identify any lumps or changes in the breast tissue. Our experienced medical team can offer more information about how to properly perform these exams and will conduct a physical exam of the breast tissue annually. Women over 40 should also receive a mammogram each year for a clearer picture of the breast tissue. For women with dense breast tissue, a 3-D mammogram may be recommended.
When it comes to the early detection of breast cancer, you are not alone. Richmond University Medical Center’s Comprehensive Breast and Imaging Center offers personal risk assessments to help you better understand all your risk factors and create a breast cancer prevention strategy. Our highly trained medical staff will explain your risk factors, which risks you can modify and steps you can follow to maintain good breast health.
Be Aware of Your Risk Factors
As with many cancers, there are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing breast cancer. Having these risk factors does not mean that you will develop breast cancer, but being aware of them allows you to make lifestyle changes to reduce risk and help your physician better tailor your care. Common risk factors include:
- One or more relatives diagnosed with breast cancer, especially close relatives, such as your mother or sister
- A previous breast cancer diagnosis
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation
- Other gene mutations identified via genetic testing
- Ashkenazi Jewish heritage
- Higher levels of androgens and estrogen
- Dense breast tissue
- High bone density
- Age of 50 years or older
- Obesity
- Physical inactivity
- Consuming more than two alcoholic drinks per day
If you have one or more of these risk factors, speak with your physician about how often you should receive breast cancer screenings and ways you can reduce risk.
The Best in Preventative Breast Care
At Richmond University Medical Center’s Comprehensive Breast and Imaging Center, patients receive the highest standard of care every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment and aftercare. Our team uses the latest in medical imaging technology, diagnostic methodology, genetic testing, and advanced treatments to address all your breast health needs, including breast cancer and benign breast disease.
If you are concerned about breast health, want to learn more about breast cancer prevention, or have questions about your risk factors, call Richmond University Medical Center’s Comprehensive Breast and Imaging Center at (718)-818-1161, Option 1. One of our helpful representatives will assist you with scheduling a risk assessment to provide answers to your questions and give you peace of mind.
