"Breast Cancer Facts and Figures 2007-2008" is out and includes four difference categories where a woman's actions can influence her risk of developing breat cancer.
Weight: Obesity increases a woman's risk of postmenopausal (but not premenopausal) breast cancer, as does weight gain during adulthood.
Alcohol use: Women who drink just 2 alcoholic beverages a day face a 21% increase in their risk for breast cancer.
Secondhand smoke: Although most studies have found no link between cigarette smoking and breast cancer, the link between secondhand smoke and breast cancer remains controversial.
Exercise: Women can lower their risk of breast cancer by exercising vigorously for 45 to 60 minutes on 5 or more days per week. Postmenopausal women can lower their risk, according to one study, with any level of physical activity performed on a regular basis.
