While
hereditary factors contribute to breast cancer, and women cannot control their genes or age,
studies show that lifestyle changes can help even at-risk women prevent disease.

To reduce
their cancer risk, women can take the following actions:

- Eat well-balanced meals. A diet
filled with a variety of foods including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy and
protein can help women maintain a healthy weight.

- Limit dietary fat. While studies suggest
that low-fat diets only modestly reduce women's cancer chances, low-fat diets improve
cardiovascular health. Fat produces extra estrogen, which can also lead to cancer.

- Avoid
alcohol. Some studies suggest that two or more alcoholic drinks a day can raise breast cancer risk
by as much as 40 percent. Even one glass of wine a day can increase risk, so women should skip
alcohol or save it for special occasions.

- Exercise. At least thirty minutes of
cardiovascular exercise a day helps boost overall health. Women should include bone-strengthening
activities, like walking or weight lifting, in their weekly routines.

Apart from directly
reducing cancer risk, the following tips can help women improve their quality of
life:

- Stay positive. The right frame of mind can mean the difference between success and
failure in any endeavor. By focusing on solutions and taking action, rather than dwelling on
problems, obstacles can be overcome more easily.

- Get involved. Giving back to one's
community through individual and group activities is another way to improve your quality of life.
Many charities and corporations have teamed up in the fight against cancer by selling
special-edition products to raise funds for cancer research. From makeup and designer T-shirts to
exclusive cars, many items are sold in an effort to raise money. One example, Mercedes-Benz, has
designed 1,000 Signature Edition S550 sedans to raise $1 million for organizations researching new
detection methods, treatments and cures for women's cancers.

- Treat yourself. Whether it
is going shopping with friends, taking extra time out of your day for a stroll in the park or
cooking with family, treating yourself can help boost your mental attitude and overall health.