Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women. The older a women is, the greater her risk. Most women who develop breast cancer have no special risk factors for the disease, so it is critical to do what you can to detect cancer early, and have a healthy lifestyle.

Steps you can take :

Do a monthly breast self-exam. Check for lumps or other changes in your breasts and in your underarm area.

Discuss your family’s health history and your own risk factors for breast cancer with your health care provider.

If you are in menopause and are taking hormone therapy (HT), talk with your health care provider about whether it is right for you. For some women, it can increase breast cancer risk. Talk with your health care provider about other treatments available to help you manage menopause.

Get a mammogram every 1 to 2 years after age 40, or more often if your health care provider recommends it.

Exercise regularly.

Drink alcohol only moderately, if at all (no more than 1 drink per day for women).

Eat a healthy, balanced diet.