It should be a lifestyle
.
Even though breast cancer awareness month is in October, it’s very important to
be aware on a daily basis and examine yourself regularly. There are some factors listed below, that might slightly increase or decrease the risk of developing
breast cancer.
Factors increasing risk include:
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previously had breast cancer
periods starting before the age of 12
menopause later than average age (52)
not having children
first pregnancy at the age of 30 or over
taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) –
depending on what type you take and how long
you take it (the risk reduces over time once you
stop)
taking the oral contraceptive pill for a number of
years (the risk reduces over time once you stop)
a few types of benign (not cancer) breast problems
dense breasts (seen on mammogram)
exposure to high levels of radiation
previously treated with chest radiation for other
cancers as a child or young adult
being overweight, especially after the menopause
drinking more alcohol than the recommended
daily amount (two units for women, three for
men)
smoking (the evidence is inconsistent but suggests this may only be significant for postmenopausal women who start smoking at a young
age and continue to smoke for many years).