Risk Factors in Breast Cancer
We do not know yet exactly why some people develop breast cancer. However, some studies have found certain risk factors exist for the disease, including those you have some control over, and those you cannot control.
Known Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
- Being a woman
- Having a strong family history in a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter)
- Aging
- Inherited genetic mutation
- Early menarche (onset of menstruation)
- Late menopause (end of menstruation)
- Nulliparity (never giving birth)
- First birth over age 30
- Previous atypical breast biopsies
Risk Factors You Can Control
- Being overweight: Some studies show that the risk of breast cancer is higher after menopause for women who are overweight.
- Alcohol use: Studies suggest that the more alcohol you drink, the greater your risk of breast cancer.
- Activity level: Physical activity keeps your weight down and thus may reduce your risk of breast cancer.
Risk Factors You Can't Control
- Age: The chances of developing breast cancer increase as you get older.
- Personal history of breast cancer: If you have had cancer in one breast, you have an increased risk of developing breast cancer in your other breast.
- Genetics: If members of your family have breast cancer and/or ovarian cancer, your risk of developing the disease could be higher.
- LCIS: A prior breast biopsy indicating lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) or atypical hyperplasia can increase your risk of breast cancer. With LCIS, atypical (or abnormal) cells are present in the breast’s milk-producing glands. These cells are a marker for breast cancer risk. Atypical hyperplasia – abnormal cells in the milk ducts – is also a risk factor for breast cancer.
- Breast density: Dense tissue instead of fatty tissue seems to hold an increased risk for breast cancer.
- Radiation exposure: If you received radiation therapy to your chest before you were 30 years old, you may be at increased risk of breast cancer later in life.
