Reduce breast cancer risk with prevention, early detection

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women after lung cancer. Approximately one out of eight American women will face breast cancer in their lifetime, and more than 2,000 American men will be diagnosed with the disease this year.

The incidence of breast cancer and breast cancer-related deaths in the United States can be daunting, but there is hope. In fact, 98 percent of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer at an early stage survive more than five years, according to the American Cancer Society.

Benjamin Paz, MD, program co-director of the City of Hope Breast Center and vice-chair of the Division of Surgery at City of Hope, emphasizes that taking prevention measures can reduce the risk of breast cancer, and screening and early detection greatly improve treatment outcomes for those diagnosed with the disease.

“Research shows that deaths from breast cancer can be reduced if individuals follow breast cancer screening recommendations, including routine mammography, regular examinations by a physician and monthly self-exams,” says Paz. “Lifestyle choices also have a role in reducing a woman’s chances of developing breast cancer. These include not smoking, eating a balanced diet and exercising.”

The chance of getting breast cancer increases with age. Additional risk factors include:

• Personal or family history (maternal or paternal) of breast cancer

• Hormone replacement therapy

• Smoking, especially as a teenager or young adult

• A breast biopsy showing benign breast proliferation

• Treatment with radiation therapy to the breast or chest

• Menstruating at an early age

Paz recommends that all women over the age of 40 visit their physician for a yearly screening mammogram and clinical breast examination (CBE).

Women in their 20s and 30s should have a CBE preferably every three years. They should conduct monthly breast self-exams starting in their 20s.