Proactive Care Pre Diagnosis

There are many factors associated with breast cancer risk. Some factors can be changed through leading a healthy lifestyle - eating well, exercising and not smoking. Some risk factors you can’t change - being a woman and getting older increase your chances of getting breast cancer. Understanding what factors may affect your risk can help you work with your health care provider to develop a breast health plan that is right for you.

Of course, the best way for women to stay on top of breast cancer is through proactive care prior to a diagnosis. In addition to leading a healthy lifestyle, doctors recommend that women have regular clinical breast exams and mammograms to find breast cancer early. Getting regular screening tests increases the chances that if you do develop breast cancer it will be found early when it’s most treatable.

In addition, it’s important to do regular breast self-exam (BSE). BSE is a tool that may help you become familiar with the way your breasts normally look and feel. Knowing what is normal for you may help you see or feel changes in your breast. If you notice any difference in the normal feel of your breast, you should contact your health provider immediately.

To go back to Breast Cancer Basics, click here.

To learn more about MammaPrint, click here.