As we enter October we are observing Breast Cancer Awareness Month. We honor all the women who have had breast cancer, the loved ones that have been lost and have optimism for a cure for everyone in the future.

The following are some tips that experts say contribute to staying healthy and lowering your risk of breast cancer:

1. Know your family history. Researchers say that if you have a first line relative who had breast cancer your lifetime risk is double that of others. If there are 2, your risk goes up 5 times.

2. Get your annual mammograms starting at age 40. If you have an increased risk as a guideline, you should start screening 10 years prior to the family member’s age at onset.

In addition if you are at risk talk to your health care provider about MRI/ultrasound as well.

3. If you have family history of breast or ovarian cancer, or are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent (Eastern European) consider genetic testing for the BRCA mutation.

4. Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can increase your risk as well as reduce your risk of surviving breast cancer.

5. Exercise regularly. By exercising regularly you will keep your weight a good range and increase your immune system function.

6. Drink alcohol in moderation. Researchers have found that 2 drinks/day could increase your risk by 21%

7. Last, but not least learn and perform a breast self-exam monthly. Always check with your health care provider if you have concerns.