NON-MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS   MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS    Gender   Age   Personal breast cancer history   Family history   Proliferative breast conditions   Breast density   Early menstruation/ Late menopause    Radiation exposure   Reproduction   Breastfeeding   Hormone replacement therapy   Oral contraceptives   Body weight > Physical activity   Alcohol use   Tobacco smoke (for younger women)

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Research has demonstrated a link between regular exercise and a lower risk for breast cancer. The benefit of exercise has been shown for both premenopausal and postmenopausal women.

The evidence also suggests that there may be a benefit to physical activity throughout adulthood and not just in later life, when the risk for breast cancer is higher.

It is not clear whether the difference in risk is related to exercise alone or to a combination of factors. Women who exercise also tend to eat a healthy diet, have a healthy body weight, avoid tobacco smoke, and follow other healthy behaviours. There is ongoing research to determine the effects of exercise on breast cancer risk more definitively.

Exercise may have other benefits in addition to reducing your risk for breast cancer. Physical activity is also associated with lower risk for other conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and osteoporosis (weakening of the bones).

For a moderately active person, aiming for at least 30 minutes of daily physical activity can help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. The right exercise program varies from person to person. It may be helpful to speak to your doctor if you are starting or changing your plan for physical activity.