breast healthWomen at high risk for breast cancer often face difficult questions, like this one that an anonymous poster recently voiced:

Would you have your breasts removed to prevent cancer?

According to the Mayo Clinic, the following are possible reasons to consider a preventative mastectomy—also known as a prophylactic mastectomy:

  • Already had cancer in one breast.
  • A family history of breast cancer.
  • Positive results from gene testing.
  • Early signs of cancer in your breast.
  • Radiation therapy in your breast before the age of 30.
  • Dense breasts and strong family history or precancerous conditions.

If you are considering whether to remove one or both breasts to prevent breast cancer, your doctor and health care provider can help you make the decision that is best for you.

Have you had a preventative mastectomy? Would you have one or both breasts removed to prevent breast cancer?

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