According to studies, there is a combination of factors that contribute to putting you at risk of developing breast cancer. There have been consistent scientific reports that have shown how a majority of breast cancer cases have been associated with women who are 50 years of age or above. You need to note the fact that even women who do not fall within the category of risk factors could also end up getting breast cancer.
The purpose of knowing the risk factors enables you to take preventive measures towards lowering the risk. Regular screening can go a long way in lowering the risk and at the same time diagnosing the cancer at an early stage.
What are the common risk factors for breast cancer?
This can be categorized majorly into two types – risk factors that you cannot control, and ones that you can.
Risk factors for breast cancer not in your control:
- Age
Age is a major factor for women since a majority of breast cancers are diagnosed only at the age of 50 or above. - Genetic makeup
The genes that you inherit, especially inheriting BRCA1 or BRCA 2, puts you high on the risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer and ovarian cancer. - Reproductive history
Your reproductive history can be a risk factor for the onset of breast cancer. If you attend your puberty earlier than age 12 or if menopause kicks in after 55, then you are exposed to hormones for a longer duration, thereby increasing the risk of breast cancer. - Dense breasts
Dense breasts would indicate that you have more connective tissue and lesser fatty tissue. This poses a difficulty to expose the presence of breast cancer during a routine mammogram. Thereby the increased risk. - Previous occurrence of breast cancer
Personal medical history when you have already had an episode of breast cancer can increase the chances of you being affected a second time. In addition, other breast diseases such as lobular carcinoma and atypical hyperplasia can increase the risk of you getting breast cancer. - Family history
Family history is another common risk factor for breast cancer that you need to pay attention to. If any of your immediate family members, related by blood, have had a diagnosis of breast cancer, then you are at a higher risk of developing this disease. This includes male relatives as well. - Radiation therapy
Exposure to radiation therapy can also increase the risk of breast cancer. If you have previously undergone any form of radiation therapy, particularly to your breast or chest, at a younger age such as before 30 years, then you can be at a higher risk.
Some of the risk factors for breast cancer that are within your control and you can take steps to prevent or rectify include, decreased physical activity, being overweight, taking artificial hormone simulators, late pregnancy, and consumption of alcohol. Many other reasons can end up causing breast cancer including smoking, exposure to chemicals, and changes to your hormones as a result of your lifestyle.
