Q. Who is at risk for breast cancer?
A. All women are at risk. Women with either a mother sister or daughter with breast cancer, particularly if it occurred before menopause or in both breasts, are at higher risk. However, only 5-10% of breast cancers are due to heredity.

Q. When should breast self-examination be performed?
A. Breast self-examination (BSE) should be performed at the same time each month. A good time to examine yourself is just as your menstrual period is ending, when the breasts are least sensitive.

Q. What role does diet and nutrition play in reducing one's breast cancer risk?
A. There is an increasing body of knowledge suggesting that diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fiber may play a role in lowering breast cancer risk. However, there is no conclusive evidence.

Q. Will drinking alcohol increase one's risk for breast cancer?
A. Studies have shown an association between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of breast cancer. If you drink alcohol, drink in moderation - less than one drink a day.

Q. Are women who have fibrocystic changes in their breasts at higher risk for breast cancer?
A. For the majority of women, fibrocystic changes are not associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

Q. Are women who use birth control pills at an increased risk for breast cancer?
A. Results have largely shown that oral contraceptive use slightly increases breast cancer risk. No increased risk is associated with taking birth control pills 10 years after stopping them.

Q. Is obesity a risk factor for breast cancer?
A. Obesity itself is not a risk factor. Weight gain is a much greater risk factor, especially if the weight gain occurs after menopause.