Reduce breast-cancer risk: Five steps plus two actions
The new Five Plus website (www.fiveplusbc.ca) encourages women to take five steps that may help to prevent breast cancer, plus two actions for possible early detection. The website also contains information about how these five risk factors affect breast health and how best to detect breast cancer early.
Five steps:
1. Maintain a healthy body weight.
2. Maintain an active lifestyle.
3. Limit alcohol consumption.
4. Breastfeed if possible.
5. Weigh the risks and benefits of hormone therapy.
Plus:
1. Be aware of the look and feel of your breasts so you notice any changes.
2. Book a mammogram every 2 years if you are between the ages of 50 to 74. Mammograms for women age 40 to 49 or over 74 can also be considered.
The Five Plus actions are based on current research and were developed by a team of BC experts in breast health. Led by the BC Cancer Agency, the Five Plus initiative is a part of the Provincial Breast Health Strategy, which unites various health agencies and partners to improve breast cancer screening, diagnosis, and prevention across BC.