Many people ask how they can reduce their risk of cancer occurring or recurring. There is no magic formula. And there have been no conclusive studies on the impact of lifestyle changes.

However there are some things that may help reduce the risk of cancer or of the cancer recurring in some women. There are also a number of remedies that women feel work for them and certainly make them feel better. These include:

Eat more cancer fighting foods

There is some medical evidence that if you eat certain food types or specific foods you can reduce your cancer risk. These foods are discussed in more detail under diet but include foods containing high fiber, antioxidants (beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E), selenium, fish oil, phytoestrogens and folic acid.

Exercise regularly

More than 20 large research studies have found that exercise reduces a woman's risk of breast cancer. Overall, researchers have found a 20 to 33 per cent reduction in risk, with some detecting a 50 per cent reduction in women who have been quite active throughout their lives, says Dr Leslie Bernstein, professor of preventive medicine at the University of Southern California. If you haven't begun exercising yet, it's not too late - aim for three to four hours of sweat-producing exercise each week.

Maintain a healthy weight

Research conducted in the US, which looked at the relationship between a woman's weight and breast cancer, showed that being a healthy weight at the ago of 18, not gaining much weight from then on and, in particular, trying not to put on weight around the time of menopause, are all important ways to reduce the risk.

Consider reducing your intake of alcohol

There is some evidence that a high alcohol intake, particularly when younger may increase breast cancer risk. Consider looking into an alcohol treatment center if this worries you.

Consider your use of HRT

Prolonged use (10 to 15 years) of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is thought to increase a woman's risk of developing breast cancer by about 50%. However most post- menopausal women are more at risk from heart disease and osteoporosis and HRT is currently thought to protect against these.

Consider meditation or other relaxation techniques

While many people think that stress causes cancer, there is no medical evidence of this. However it will help you to deal more effectively with your recovery and some experts believe that stress reduction techniques improve the outlook for cancer sufferers.

Look after your immune system

Your immune system keeps you healthy. You may want to take extra care to avoid getting sick from colds or flu by avoiding people who are sick and washing your hands carefully regularly. You may also consider taking it easier when you do appear to be coming down with something, so you get over it more quickly.