Risk Factors & Prevention

This section of About Breast Cancer describes the many known risk factors for breast cancer—from those that have a large effect on risk (such as getting older, having a strong family history and having carcinoma in situ) to those that have a small effect on risk (such as being tall and eating an unhealthy diet). Also included are tips for lowering risk, information on genetic mutations (including genetic testing) and options like tamoxifen for women at higher risk.

Factors that Increase Breast Cancer Risk

Other Issues Related to Breast Cancer Risk

Introduction Being female Getting older Inherited genetic mutations Carcinoma in situ Family history of breast, ovarian or prostate cancer High breast density on mammogram Radiation exposure in youth Benign breast conditions (benign breast disease, hyperplasia) High levels of estrogen in the blood Personal history of breast cancer Menopause at age 55 or older Not having children or having first child after age 35 High bone density Overweight/ weight gain High socioeconomic status Ashkenazi Jewish heritage Drinking alcohol Lack of exercise Postmenopausal hormone use First period before age 12 Current or recent use of birth control pills Being tall Not breastfeeding Risk factors summary table of relative risks

Understanding risk Breast cancer risk factors table Understanding breast cancer prevention Healthy behaviors Race and ethnicity Gene mutations and genetic testing Options for women at higher risk (tamoxifen and other choices) Emerging areas in estimating risk Factors under study Factors that do not increase risk Questions for your provider References

Introduction