Breast Cancer Prevention

It may seem shocking for a woman without breast cancer to have a double mastectomy -- but there are times when such a drastic move may make sense. In this video, Dr. Jesse Dirksen discusses the genetic mutations that can place a woman at very... Full Answer

The earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chances that treatment will work. The goal is to find cancers before they start to cause symptoms. Breast cancers that are found because they can be felt tend to be larger and are more likely to have... Full Answer

You can lower your breast cancer risk by getting adequate exercise, losing excess weight, and avoiding or limiting alcohol. If you take hormone therapy for menopause symptoms, you may want to restrict the amount or duration, as it can raise your breast... Full Answer

There are medications to help decrease the chance of breast cancer in high-risk women. These medications are tamoxifen and raloxifene. Tamoxifen and raloxifene can slow or block the negative (bad) effects that estrogen can have on breast tissue.... Full Answer

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, exceeded only by lung cancer. About 1 out of every 7 women will get breast cancer over a 90-year life span. All women are at risk for... Full Answer

For women with BRCA mutations, prophylactic mastectomies are offered as a preventive measure. In this video, Elisa Port, MD, a surgeon at The Mount Sinai Medical Center, explains why some women may choose to watch and wait instead. Full Answer

Flaxseed is rich in lignans, which are another form of phytoestrogens, and lignans have been shown to have powerful breast-cancer-fighting properties. At the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, evidence was presented documenting that lignans... Full Answer

A recent Italian study found that women who suffer from breast cancer ate more cereals, cakes, and bread made of refined grains. Diets high in whole grains have been linked to lower rates of the disease. Full Answer

It seems logical that an increase in fruits and vegetables might decrease the risk of cancer, since they provide valuable micronutrients. The predominant theory is that antioxidants such as beta-carotene (a form of vitamin A), vitamin C, and... Full Answer

There are no food or dietary supplements that will act as "magic bullets"to prevent breast cancer from returning. However, certain foods, including fruits, vegetable, and whole grains are known to contain special chemicals (phytochemicals with... Full Answer