Can I Lower my Risk of Breast Cancer? Screening and Prevention

This is the fourth article in the Understanding Breast Cancer Guide. This guide was developed by the HealthTree Education Team and was last updated and reviewed on May 18, 2026

Breast cancer is one of the most detectable cancers. Regular mammograms and other screening tools can find breast cancer before symptoms appear, and when breast cancer is found early, it is far more likely to be cured. There are also steps you can take to reduce your risk.

Breast cancer screening

Screening means looking for cancer before there are any signs or symptoms. For breast cancer, screening can find tumors when they are small and most treatable. Regular screening saves lives.

Most guidelines recommend that all women start getting screened for breast cancer every other year beginning at age 40. Women with a higher risk, such as those with a family history of breast cancer or a hereditary gene mutation, may need to start earlier or be screened more often. Talk to your doctor about what is right for you.

Which screening test should I choose?

There is no one "best" screening test for everyone. The right option depends on your personal risk, breast tissue density, preferences, and access to testing.

• Mammography is the most commonly recommended screening test and the only one proven to reduce breast cancer deaths through regular screening.
• Additional imaging like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound may be recommended for women with dense breasts or higher-than-average risk.
• Practicing breast self-awareness can help you notice changes and report them to your doctor. This includes knowing the normal look, feel, and structure of your breasts which enables you to quickly detect changes and report them to your doctor.

Types of breast cancer screening tests

Mammography

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. It is the standard screening tool for breast cancer and can detect tumors that are too small to feel. Mammograms are typically done every one to two years, depending on age and risk.

3D mammography (digital breast tomosynthesis) is a newer type of mammogram that creates a three-dimensional image of the breast, making it easier to detect cancers in dense breast tissue.

Breast MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images. It is recommended for women at high risk (such as those with a BRCA mutation) in addition to annual mammography. Breast MRI is more sensitive than mammography but also has a higher rate of false positives.

Breast ultrasound

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the breast. It is often used to evaluate a lump found on a mammogram or physical exam, and as a supplement to mammography in women with dense breast tissue.

Clinical breast exam

A clinical breast exam is a physical examination performed by a doctor. While it is no longer recommended as a primary screening tool by all guidelines, it remains part of routine health checkups for many women.

Reducing your risk of breast cancer through lifestyle

While you cannot change all of your risk factors, healthy habits can help lower your risk of breast cancer and many other cancers. Changes you can make include:

• Limit alcohol consumption. Even reducing intake by one drink per day may lower risk.
• Stay physically active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.
• Maintain a healthy weight. This becomes especially important after menopause.
• Weigh the pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy. If you are considering using this form of therapy to improve menopause symptoms, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits.
• Breastfeed if possible. Breastfeeding has been associated with a modest reduction in breast cancer risk.
• Avoid or limit unnecessary radiation exposure. If you have had radiation therapy in the past, learn more about the signs and symptoms of breast cancer to watch for.

Preventive medications and risk-reducing surgery

Some people at high risk for breast cancer may benefit from preventive (chemoprevention) medications such as tamoxifen, raloxifene, or aromatase inhibitors, which can lower the risk of developing hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.

For people with very high risk, such as those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, risk-reducing surgery such as preventive (prophylactic) mastectomy or oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) may significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer. These are major decisions that require careful discussion with a specialist.