October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the impact of the disease and highlight the work of researchers advancing prevention and care. 

Professor Bonnie Spring, Ph.D., studies how lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and stress management affect long-term outcomes for breast cancer survivors. Her research shows that healthy daily habits not only improve the quality of life but also reduce the risk of recurrence and other chronic illnesses. Survivors benefit from the same choices that help prevent cancer in the first place, including avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, eating a plant-rich diet, maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly.

“Survivors need support to protect their long-term health, not just treatment for the disease itself,” Spring said. “The best news is that we now have evidence-based tools that empower individuals to reduce cancer risk and promote survival.”