HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologybreast cancerHow can I lower my risk of hereditary breast cancer?

What are the methods for preventing breast cancer?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Khushbu

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At April 9, 2024
Reviewed AtApril 9, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 35-year-old woman, and I am concerned about breast cancer. One of my aunts had breast cancer, and she suffered a lot. She is better now since she had stage 3 cancer, and the doctors said there are chances for the cancer to come again. Since then, I have been a little worried. What if I am at risk of getting breast cancer? As I heard, it is all genetics, and if someone in the family has breast cancer, the chances of other family members getting the same are as high. So that is when I heard about a breast cancer vaccine. How effective is this vaccine in preventing breast cancer? Also, when is the best time for someone like me to consider getting this vaccine? I want to protect myself, so any information on the vaccine's effectiveness and timing would be beneficial.

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Khushbu

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Here are some ideas to address your fears about breast cancer.

  1. Risk and family history: It is reasonable that your aunt's experience with stage 3 breast cancer has made you more conscious of your vulnerability. While having a family member with breast cancer raises your risk in comparison to the general population, it is not a definitive factor. The complex interaction of genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors determines your particular risk. According to studies, having one close relative with breast cancer roughly doubles your risk, although it is crucial to note that the majority of women with breast cancer do not have a family history of the illness.

  2. Current lack of preventative vaccines: Unfortunately, no commercially approved vaccination that specifically prevents breast cancer is presently available. Although various potential research areas are looking into customized vaccinations and ways of targeting specific biomarkers, the general availability of an effective vaccine is still some years away.

Prevention measures that should be taken are :

  1. Consult your doctor: A thorough discussion with your doctor is essential. They can assess your personal risk factors and offer suitable screening techniques as well as risk-reduction tactics like maintaining a healthy weight, frequent exercise, limiting alcohol use, and quitting smoking.

  2. Regular screening: Given your higher risk, it is recommended that you follow your doctor's recommended breast cancer screening schedule. Early identification increases treatment results and survival chances dramatically.

  3. Keep up to date: Consult trustworthy sources regularly to get updates on breast cancer research and potential future vaccination developments.

In brief, While there is no preventive vaccination for breast cancer, proactive steps such as frequent screening, risk-reduction tactics, and close engagement with your healthcare practitioner can dramatically improve your protection against the illness. You may make vital efforts toward sustaining your health and well-being by concentrating on the controllable things within your power.

I hope this information will help you.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Khushbu
Dr. Khushbu

Obstetrics and Gynecology

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