Risk factors for breast cancer

Risk factors for breast cancer are aspects that increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer. These factors can be divided into two main categories: modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Modifiable risk factors are those that can be changed or controlled, such as lifestyle choices, while non-modifiable risk factors are those that cannot be changed, such as age and genetics.

Non-modifiable Risk Factors

Age

Age is a significant risk factor for breast cancer. The risk of developing breast cancer increases as a woman gets older, particularly after menopause.

Genetics

Approximately 5-10% of breast cancers are thought to be hereditary, caused by abnormal genes passed from parent to child. The most common cause of hereditary breast cancer is an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene.

Family History

A woman’s risk of breast cancer nearly doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Modifiable Risk Factors

Alcohol

The consumption of alcohol is clearly linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed.

Weight

Being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast cancer, especially for women after menopause.

Physical Activity

A lack of physical activity can increase your risk of developing breast cancer.

Prevention

While you can't control some breast cancer risk factors—family history and aging, for example—there are some risk factors that you can control, which include being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol intake.

See Also

• Breast cancer
• BRCA1
• BRCA2
• Cancer prevention