Breast Cancer Prevention...

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Having a low VO2max is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer and an increased risk of breast cancer mortality.

The average VO2max in breast cancer patients prior to treatment is less than 24.7 mL/kg/min.  The average VO2max of a healthy sedentary woman is greater than 29.6 mL/kg/min.

Based on the review of 27 studies between 2001 and 2013, women should strive to have a VO2max that is greater than 30 mL/kg/min to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.

 The Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool (The Gail Model), allows us to estimate a woman's risk of developing invasive breast cancer over the next five years and up to age 90.

The tool uses a woman's personal medical and reproductive history and the history of breast cancer among her first-degree relatives (mother, sisters, daughters) to estimate absolute breast cancer risk - the chance or probability of developing invasive breast cancer in a defined age interval.

This calculator takes about five minutes to complete.

Compared to women who don't drink at all...women who have three alcoholic drinks per week have a 15% higher risk of developing breast cancer.

The less alcohol you drink, the lower your risk for cancer.  Breast cancer accounts for 75% of all alcohol related cancers diagnosed in women.

Alcohol consumption promotes the conversion of androgens into excess estrogen and has been consistently associated with the development of breast cancer. Along with the development of breast cancer, alcohol also promotes low testosterone in women resulting in weight gain, decreased libido, infertility, fatigue and poor mood.

 Mammograms are x-ray images of your breasts designed to detect cancers and other changes in breast tissue. A mammogram can be used either for screening or for diagnostic purposes.

A screening mammogram is used to detect breast changes that could be cancerous in people who have no signs or symptoms. 

In Alberta, average risk women are encouraged to have a screening mammogram once every 2 years.

For ages 40-44, you will need a referral or requisition from your healthcare provider for your first screening mammogram.

After that...you will be able to book future mammogram appointments by simply providing the name of your healthcare provider.

For ages 45-74, you can book a mammogram without a referral or requisition.