Breast Cancer		High Risk for Breast Cancer   I’m at high risk for breast cancer. I've heard that there’s nothing I can do about it. Is this true? No. There are several effective ways to reduce, although not eliminate, the risk of breast cancer in women at high risk. Options include: Lifestyle changes (dietary modifications, limited alcohol consumption, no smoking, regular exercise, etc.) Medication (tamoxifen) For cases of very high risk, surgery (prophylactic mastectomies and prophylactic removal of ovaries) may be considered. Be sure that you have consulted with a physician or genetic counselor before you make assumptions about your level of risk for breast cancer. Questions Related to High Risk for Breast Cancer Does breast cancer only affect older women? If you have a risk factor for breast cancer, are you likely to get the disease? If breast cancer doesn't run in your family, are you assured of not getting it? Does only your mother’s family history of breast cancer affect your risk? Does using antiperspirants cause breast cancer? Is q monthly breast self-exam the best way to diagnose breast cancer? Is a breast cancer diagnosis an automatic death sentence? Does breastfeeding if you have a breast tumor increase your child’s risk of cancer? Does wearing an underwire bra cause breast cancer? Can mammograms cause cancer? Page 1 of 1    | 1 |

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