Flaxseed has been used for thousands of years in the making of linens, and its oil may be beneficial in the fight against breast cancer. Since the 1950's, flaxseed has been promoted as having cancer-preventing qualities, yet scientists have only recently begun to discover evidence that the Omega-3 oil in flaxseed helps to prevent many different types of cancers. A phytoestrogen in flaxseed by the name of lignin appears to be the beneficial factor.

Does a healthy diet help prevent breast cancer? The answer is unclear. Studies have shown a strong link between consuming less fat and more fruits and vegetables, and a lower incidence of breast cancer, but these studies have been inconclusive. Some of the suggested changes are simply healthy choices overall.

Although its long-term effects continue to be studied, Tamoxifen was the first Selective Estrogen -Receptor Modulator (SERM) approved by the FDA in 1998 to help with the prevention of breast cancer in high-risk women. It is also used to help prevent a new formation of cancer in the other breast when a woman has already had breast cancer.

In an April 2006 study researchers discovered a 50% reduction in new cases of breast cancer in women who had the highest level of vitamin D in their blood serum. It is known that Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased incidence of breast cancer.

Do you take NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for pain? If so, you may be inadvertently decreasing your risks of developing breast cancer.