A woman’s chance of getting breast cancer increases with age. At 20, it’s 1 in 1,847. By age 40, it’s 1 in 40. The lifetime risk of getting breast cancer is 1 in 8.
Although breast cancer in men is uncommon, it does happen. For every 100 women with the disease, there is 1 man; 1990 men are expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year.
Regular physical activity lowers your risk of developing breast cancer. It reduces estrogen levels, fights obesity, lowers insulin levels and boosts immune system cells that attack tumors.
A healthy diet—one that is balanced and low in saturated and trans fats—and limiting alcohol can also reduce your risk of getting breast cancer.
Signs of breast cancer vary, and many women have no signs that they can see.
Clinical trials help advance breast cancer treatment. They’ve helped develop the screening mammography and lumpectomy as well as the use tamoxifen to treat breast cancer.
