Breast Cancer: Understanding Risk Factors and the Importance of Early Detection
*Disclaimer: The information in this post is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Readers should seek the guidance of a licensed medical professional regarding any questions or concerns about their health or treatment options.*
According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers, and it is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States. This is why it is important to understand the risk factors that may influence your risk of getting breast cancer and the significance of early detection.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are two types of risk factors: ones that you cannot change and ones that you can change. It is essential to be aware of these factors and discuss with your doctor ways to reduce your risk.
Risk factors you cannot change:
Growing older
The risk of getting breast cancer increases with age and is most commonly diagnosed among middle-aged and older women.
Genetics
There are specific inherited mutations in genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, that increase one’s risk of getting breast cancer.
Family History
Having a relative who has or has had breast cancer may increase the risk of getting breast cancer.
Reproductive History
Starting menstruation before age 12 and starting menopause after age 55 prolongs hormone exposure, which can increase the risk for breast cancer.
Having dense breasts
Dense breasts can make it more difficult to be diagnosed with breast cancer, and they increase one’s risk of getting breast cancer.
Personal History
Women who have previously had breast cancer are more likely to have it a second time.
Radiation History
Having radiation to the chest to treat another health issue may increase the risk of getting breast cancer.
Exposure to DES
Women who took Diethylstilbestrol (DES) or women whose mothers took DES while pregnant with them have a higher risk of getting breast cancer.
Risk factors you can change:
Being physically inactive
Being overweight after menopause
Taking hormones
Some hormone replacement therapies can raise one’s risk for breast cancer when taken for more than 5 years
Pregnancy History
Never having a full-term pregnancy, not breastfeeding, or having your first child after age 30 can increase your risk of getting breast cancer
Smoking
Drinking alcohol
Low Vitamin D Levels
Knowledge is power - by learning about these risk factors, you can make lifestyle changes to be the healthiest, most empowered version of yourself, and lower your risk for breast cancer as much as possible.
Why early detection matters:
According to the National Cancer Institute, the 5-year relative survival for localized breast cancer, also known as stage 1, is 100%. In short, early breast cancer detection saves lives.
What you can do:
Do monthly breast self-exams
Check out this page by the National Breast Cancer Foundation to learn more about breast self-exams
Schedule regular mammograms. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends that all women start getting mammograms every 2 years at age 40.
Check out this page by the National Breast Cancer Foundation to learn how to schedule a mammogram
