As October highlights Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Stacy Chronister with OSU Medicine says prevention begins with understanding which risks can and can’t be controlled.

"You can’t impact your genetics," Chronister said. "You are born with certain genetics for maybe getting breast cancer."

Family history or genetic predisposition

Age

Past reproductive history, such as not having children or breastfeeding

Chronister said knowing those risks can help guide screening decisions, especially for women with a strong family history.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

One of the most effective ways to reduce breast cancer risk is maintaining a healthy weight. Chronister said obesity can significantly increase risk, and even small changes matter.

She noted that losing as little as five pounds

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