Know Your Risk
True or False: Risk factors cause breast cancer?
False - Risk factors are associated with an increased chance of getting breast cancer, they do not cause breast cancer.
True or False: Clinical breast exams should begin at age 20
True - Clinical breast exams should be done every three years starting at age 20 and then done once per year starting at age 40
True of False: When people consume more alcohol they are at a greater risk of breast cancer
True - The risk of breast cancer increases the more one drinks
But it is important to remember risk factors do not cause cancer. Risk factors are only associated with an increased chance that one may get cancer.
Name the two most common risk factors associated with breast cancer
Being female and aging
What is a clinical breast exam
A clinical breast exam is a physical exam done by a trained healthcare worker.
Name two healthy lifestyle choices to reduce risk factors for breast cancer
-Maintain a healthy weight
-Add exercise into your routine
-Limit alcohol intake
-Limit menopausal hormone use
-Breastfeed if able
What does the term "modifiable risk factor" mean
A modifiable risk factor is something you can change to reduce your risk. One example is exercise; you can change the amount of exercise you are getting each day.
True of False - Mammography is a type of xray done to screen for breast cancer
True - Mammography is the best cancer screening tool used today.
Should women always avoid taking menopausal hormones to decrease their breast cancer risk
No - menopausal hormones may be necessary for some women. Women should talk about the use of these hormones with their doctors.