The Quick Facts: The detection of breast cancer was the focus of new controversial recommendations made recently about breast cancer screening. However, there are many risk factors associated with the development of breast cancer and some groups strongly believe that increases of chemicals in the environment has lead to increases in breast cancer. Synthetic chemicals can mimic the effect of estrogen, exposure to which overtime increases the risk of breast cancer. You can take preventative measures to reduce your risk of breast cancer by reducing these risk factors. Namely, make informed decisions about birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy; limit the amount of alcohol you drink to one drink a day and don’t smoke; maintain a healthy weight throughout your life by eating healthy and exercising; eat organic produce, meat, and dairy; avoid #7 plastics that may contain BPA; revamp your beauty routine and use more natural products.

In mid-November the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent government-appointed panel made the first reevaluation of breast cancer screening guidelines since 2002. Needless to say, their recommendations were controversial. One recommendation suggests that women in their 40s should stop routinely having annual mammograms and older women should cut back to one scheduled exam every other year. Many organizations do not support the recommendations, including the American Cancer Society and the American College of Radiology, among others. Speak with your doctor to determine what the proper course of action is right for you.
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