Prevention

While breast cancer can’t be completely prevented, there are ways you can help lower your risk. At CHI Saint Joseph Health, we offer the education you need to stay on top of your breast health, plus a full range of preventive, peace-of-mind services.

Learn more below. To make an appointment with a caring specialist, find a breast health expert online.

Understand Your Breast Cancer Risk Factors

The cause of breast cancer is currently unknown, but certain risk factors have been identified. Some are beyond your control, including growing older, family history and certain gene changes. Fortunately, there are also several factors that you can control—some even through simple lifestyle changes:

• Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight is associated with increased risk of breast cancer, especially for women after menopause.
• Eat right: Unhealthy eating habits are thought to be partly responsible for about 30 percent to 40 percent of all cancers. A diet low in fat, and processed and red meat, and high in fruits and vegetables can have other health benefits as well.
• Be physically active: Research shows a link between exercising four to seven hours per week and a lower risk of breast cancer.
• Limit alcohol: Women who have three alcoholic drinks per week have a 15 percent higher risk of breast cancer, compared to women who don't drink at all.
• Stop smoking: Smoking is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer in younger, premenopausal women.
• Watch estrogen exposure: Because the female hormone estrogen stimulates breast cell growth, exposure to estrogen over long periods of time, such as with hormone replacement therapy, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Talk to your health care provider about non-hormonal options to treat menopausal symptoms.

Take Control with Our Prevention Programs 

If you think you may be at higher risk for breast cancer, or just want to stay proactive, we offer comprehensive prevention and screening services at locations throughout Kentucky.

Breast Cancer Screenings

Mammography doesn’t prevent cancer, but it is crucial to catching the disease in its earliest—and most treatable—stages. At CHI Saint Joseph Health, we recommend annual screening mammograms beginning at age 40 for all women. We offer digital and 3D mammography for superior accuracy, in serene and comfortable settings to help put you at ease.

To schedule your quick and easy mammogram, find a screening location near you.

Genetic Cancer Counseling

Our program includes comprehensive breast cancer risk assessments, plus complementary genetic cancer counseling for individuals or families with hereditary concerns, including the BRCA gene. When appropriate, your counselor will also coordinate genetic testing, walk through the results and discuss next steps.

Preventive Surgery

For the small percentage of women with a very high risk for breast cancer, preventive breast cancer surgery may be an option. CHI Saint Joseph Health's skilled breast surgeons specialize in preventive mastectomy, with breast reconstruction done at the same time or at a later date.