If your 5 year risk is more than 1.7%, you are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

We would like to share a few tips that you can follow to protect your health:

• Monthly Self-breast examination
Doing a self-breast examination monthly after your periods is important whether or not you are at a risk. If you find any abnormalities such as nipple discharge, inverted nipples, swelling in the armpits, etc. meet your doctor immediately.

• Annual health check-ups
Testing for breast cancer especially if you have a family history is extremely important. You must undergo Sono-Mammography and Pap Smear once in three years. You must also get a CBC blood test done every year.

• BRCA1 and BRCA2 testing
If you have a family history of breast cancer, find out if you have DNA changes that raise your risk of breast cancer, and you must take the BRCA gene test.

• Limit alcohol consumption and smoking:
If you consume alcohol or smoke, it is best to quit. Although quitting smoking and alcohol consumption can be difficult, you can consider limiting consumption.

• Consume a healthy diet
Breast cancer risk can be decreased with a balanced diet. Include a lot of fruits and vegetables and foods that are high in fibre in your diet. Reduce consumption of refined carbohydrates and processed foods and dietary fats by 10% to 20% calories.

• Be active
Be physically active to maintain a healthy weight. You can indulge in simple activities such as walking. Weight training is also a great option. Remember, consistency is key!

• Breast-feeding
If you are breastfeeding or plan on having children, breastfeeding may aid in the prevention of breast cancer. The protective effect increases with the duration of breastfeeding.