Published by Trustmark Voluntary Benefits on October 6th, 2022

Every October, we celebrate the strength of those coping with breast cancer and come together in our shared mission to find a cure. In an ideal world, we’d wish that no one would have to cope with breast cancer in the first place; and, with that in mind, we’ve compiled several ways that you can help reduce your risk.

  • Keep a healthy weight – Increased body weight and weight gain as an adult are linked with higher risk of breast cancer. 
  • Be Physically Active / Exercise regularly – Many studies have shown that regular, moderate to vigorous physical activity has a correlation with lower breast cancer risk. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults get at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week, preferably spread throughout the week.
  • Don’t smoke – Smoking is a risk factor for all types of cancer, including breast cancer.
  • Limit alcoholic drinks – Alcohol can also increase your risk of breast cancer, so it’s recommended to limit your consumption to no more than one drink per day.
  • Understand your medication – If you are taking or have been told to take hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives, be sure to check with your doctor about risks to find out if it is right for you. Some medications may increase the odds of breast cancer.
  • Breastfeeding your children – If possible, breastfeeding for at least several months may help to mitigate the risk of breast cancer.
  • Know your family history – If you have a family history of breast cancer or inherited changes in your BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, talk to your doctor about other ways to lower your risk.
  • Be vigilant – One of the most important things you can do is conduct regular self-examinations. It is important to schedule more frequent doctor vists for breast exams and ongoing risk assessment. If you notice any changes in your skin or detect a lump, please consult your doctor. 
Throughout October, we hope you’ll join us in spreading the word about the realities of breast cancer and supporting those who are fighting it. Please take these tips to heart and share them with loved ones.

Sources: American Cancer Society; Center for Disease Control. 2023.