How to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer

At Women’s Health Partners of the Permian Basin in Odessa, Texas, we believe that the heart of healthcare is service. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, our team, led by board-certified OB/GYN and fellowship-trained breast surgeon Dr. Mary Grace Bridges, wants to help you take charge of your health. 

While you can't change some risk factors like aging, there are many proactive steps you can take to protect yourself. Understanding how to reduce your risk of breast cancer starts with separating medical facts from common myths. 

Whether you are due for a routine checkup or exploring options for breast surgery, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Here is what you need to know about protecting your breast health.

How can you reduce your risk of breast cancer through lifestyle changes?

You can reduce your risk of breast cancer by making simple, daily adjustments to your diet, exercise, and alcohol intake. Research shows that healthy habits have a direct, positive impact on your body's hormone levels and immune system.

One of the most effective changes you can make is to limit or eliminate alcohol. According to a 2024 study published in a peer-reviewed medical journal, even consuming less than one standard alcoholic drink per day can increase your relative risk of breast cancer by 4%. If you drink three alcoholic beverages a day, that risk jumps to 22%.

Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight after menopause also play an important role. After menopause, your body's estrogen is mainly produced in your fat tissue. Carrying excess weight means your body produces more estrogen, which can trigger the growth of certain breast cancers. Regular exercise helps lower these hormone levels and keeps your immune system strong.

When should you start getting mammograms?

You should start getting a screening mammogram—an X-ray of the breast used to detect early signs of cancer—every two years starting at age 40. This is a major update from previous medical guidelines that suggested waiting until age 50.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (2024) officially lowered the recommended screening age to 40 in response to rising rates of breast cancer in younger women. Catching cancer early through these routine screenings means you can access highly effective, less invasive treatments before the disease has a chance to spread.

While mammograms don't prevent cancer from starting, they are the absolute best tool we have for early detection. If you are 40 or older, scheduling this simple test is one of the most important things you can do for your long-term health.

Does a lack of family history mean you are safe?

No, a lack of family history doesn’t mean you’re safe from breast cancer, as the vast majority of diagnoses occur in women with no family history of the disease. Many people believe that breast cancer is strictly a hereditary condition, but this is a common misconception.

According to Breastcancer.org (2024), only about 5% to 10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations passed down through families. In contrast, a staggering 85% to 90% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have absolutely no family history of the disease.

Most cases are actually caused by spontaneous changes in your cells that happen naturally as you age. This means that every woman, regardless of her family tree, needs to stay proactive about her health. Routine screenings and healthy lifestyle choices are essential defenses for everyone.

Taking care of your health is a lifelong journey, and we are honored to walk alongside you. From routine gynecology care to specialized breast health consultations, our compassionate team is here to provide the personalized support you deserve. 

Are you ready to prioritize your wellness this month? Please contact our team today to schedule an appointment at our Odessa, Texas, office.