“The good news is that losing weight helps to reduce this extra risk, so losing a few pounds can help protect your breasts,” said Dr Barr.
Another way to minimise your breast cancer risk is to do an overhaul of an unhealthy lifestyle.
Dr Barr explained: “There is strong evidence which links rises in body weight, lack of exercise and high alcohol consumption to increased breast cancer risk
“Understanding all these risk factors allows a personalised risk prediction and then prevention.”
Dr Barr added: “This may include increasing your exercise levels and taking steps to reduce your alcohol consumption.
“Making good lifestyle choices is important to everyone and can help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer as well as lots of other diseases.”
Dr Barr’s third and final tip to reduce breast cancer risk is to be aware of your family’s medical history.
“If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, you can ask your GP about genetic testing,” said Dr Barr.
Genetic testing involves a simple blood test that looks for mutations in 12 key genes.
Women who have mutations in these genes are eligible to start mammograms at a younger age than the NHS breast screening programme, which is currently 50.
“You might also be offered preventative medicines,” Dr Barr added.
Three ways to minimise your risk of breast cancer
- Check your weight
- Check your lifestyle
- Check your family history.