A husband’s excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can increase a wife’s risk of breast cancer, according to studies linking passive exposure to increased risk factors. To lower risk, both partners can focus on a healthy lifestyle that includes limiting or avoiding alcohol, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.Â
- Excessive alcohol intake:Â Studies have shown a link between alcohol consumption and increased breast cancer risk. If a husband drinks heavily, his wife may be at a higher risk due to the association between alcohol and breast cancer.
- Smoking:Â Exposure to cigarette smoke, whether directly or indirectly, is a risk factor for many cancers. Studies have shown a link between passive smoking and increased breast cancer risk.
- Maintaining a healthy weight:Â Being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast cancer.
- Breastfeeding:Â Breastfeeding can lower breast cancer risk.
- Limiting hormone therapy:Â Women who take postmenopausal hormone therapy are at higher risk for breast cancer.
- Eating a healthy diet:Â Consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limiting processed foods, red meat, and sugar-sweetened beverages can help lower risk.Â
How to lower the risk
- Limit alcohol:Â The safest option is to avoid alcohol altogether, but if you do drink, do so in moderation.
- Quit smoking:Â If you smoke, quit. If a family member smokes, try to avoid secondhand smoke.
- Stay at a healthy weight:Â Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
- Exercise regularly:Â Physical activity is important for reducing cancer risk.
- Talk to your doctor:Â Your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your health history and family history of cancer.Â
