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Breast cancer is a serious condition and can be life-threatening, but there are ways of reducing the risk of getting breast cancer.

• Maintain a healthy weight

  Excess fatty tissue is a source of circulating estrogen in your body and breast cancer is linked to how much estrogen you are exposed too in your lifetime. Regular exercise, as well as limiting fat in your diet can help maintain a healthy weight. Eating cruciferous (cabbage-family) vegetables regularly can provide protective phytonutrients. Also 2 grams of fish oil or eating fish, which contains high omega-3 fatty acid can significantly reduce your risk of getting breast cancer.

• Limit alcohol

  Research has shown that women who consume more than one drink of alcohol a day increased their risk of getting breast cancer.

• Be aware of pesticides and antibiotics

  Research has shown that breast cancer may be linked to both pesticide exposure and overuse of antibiotics.

• Avoid long-term estrogen replacement therapy

  Latest study showed that using estrogen replacement therapy for more than 15 years raises the risk of breast cancer.

• Regular examinations

  Early detection of breast cancer increases the chances of a successful treatment. It is important to get regular mammograms, as well as to conduct self-examinations. If there are any changes in size, shape, color, or tenderness, a health professional should be consulted.