The aim of this study was to improve our knowledge about carcinogenesis and lifestyle, given their impact on the occurrence of breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle changes as a preventive factor in the development of the disease. We conducted a bibliographic review with the analysis of 31 articles in English and Portuguese. As a result, the articles selected for study showed that factors such as diet, alcohol intake, smoking, obesity, physical activity, occupational exposure, hormonal factors (hormone therapy, contraceptives) and reproductive factors (menarche, menopause, nulliparity, pregnancy, breastfeeding) have a protective or risk effect on breast cancer. We conclude that eating healthy, with fruits, vegetables and greens, practicing moderate physical activity, avoiding alcoholic beverages and breastfeeding exclusively reduce the risk of developing breast cancer by 28%. Therefore, it is necessary to make the public aware of these modifiable risk factors