What increases a woman's risk for breast cancer?

The risk of developing breast cancer increases as a woman gets older. However, the risk is not the same for all women. Research has shown that the following factors increase a woman's chance of developing the disease:

• A personal or family history (mother, sister or daughter) of breast cancer.
• A diagnosis of atypical hyperplasia (breast cells that are abnormal and increased in number) or lobular carcinoma in situ (abnormal cells in the lobules of the breast).
• Certain gene changes, such as an altered BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene.
• Certain reproductive and menstrual factors. These include starting menstruation at age 11 or younger, never having a child or having a first child at an older age, going through menopause after age 55, and taking menopausal hormone therapy for a long time.
• Having dense breast tissue as an older woman.

It is important to keep in mind that most women who have known risk factors do not get breast cancer. Also, except for growing older, most women with breast cancer have no clear risk factors.

If you think you may be at risk for breast cancer, talk with your doctor. Your doctor may be able to suggest ways to reduce your risk and can plan a schedule for checkups.

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