There will be an estimated 184,200 cases of breast cancer in the US this year. At the present time, there is no way to totally prevent breast cancer. A woman's best strategy is to reduce her known risk factors whenever reasonable. Some fo these approaches are described below

#1. Get an estimate of your personal risk
The National Cancer Institute has made available a tool to estimate your risk of developing breast cancer over the next five years, and also over your lifetime. This risk assessment tool is based on the so-called Gail Model, and after answering 7 simple questions, you are given an estimate of your risk of getting breast cancer over the next 5 years, and also over your lifetime. This knowledge may help guide you and your health care provider about lifestyle modifications. Your health care provider can direct you to this valuable tool.

#2. Get mammograms
The use of mammograms is the single most effective method of early detection. Mammograms use low-dose X-rays that allow the internal structure of the breast to be visualized. Mammograms are accurate, but not perfect. On average, mammograms will detect about 90% of breast cancer in women without symptoms, and the test is somewhat more accurate in postmenopausal women compared to premenopausal women. The American Cancer Society recommends mammograms annually beginning at age 40. The precise age at which to begin mammograms is controversial, though, with other groups suggesting annually at beginning at age 50. Ask if your local facility is accredited by the American College of Radiology.

#3. Do brease self-examination monthly
Mammograms are fairly accuarate, but are by no means a perfect test. Because a small percentage of cancers may be missed by the mammograms, women should perform monthly breast self-exam, with the American Cancer Society recommending that this begin at age 20. Lumps are not necessarily abnormal, and they can wax and wane with a women's menstrual cycle. Most lumps that are tested are not cancerous. Still, when in doubt, check it out with your health care provider.

#4. Get a physician exam of your breast annually
A clinical exam by a trained health care professional can offer substantial benefit in screening for breast cancer, and should be performed in combination with mammography. This clinical breast exam should be performed every 3 years from ages 20 through 39, and annually starting at age 40. The American Cancer Society suggests that the clinical exam be done prior to mammograms for women over 40.

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