Breast Cancer Risk Factors You Cannot Change

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The following is a list of breast cancer risk factors that you CANNOT change. Because you can’t change them doesn’t mean there is nothing for you to do. Be more than aware of breast cancer… be aware of your own situation. Do you have a family history of breast cancer, did your menstrual cycle start early for a girl? Knowing these things will help you recognize your own potential of developing breast cancer. I don’t know about you, but knowing that my risk is raised for any reason motivates me to want to check myself….

Being a Woman

This is probably the biggest breast cancer risk factor. The fact that we are women automatically puts us in a higher risk category. Men can get breast cancer too. But compared to the 40,000 women a year that die from the disease, less than 2000 men die each year. So, if you are a brother, or a husband, you should be aware too!! Check out more information on men and breast cancer.

Age

Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women 55 years or older. However, younger women when diagnosed with breast cancer are typically diagnosed with more aggressive cancer. That’s why it is so important to check yourself and get your clinical breast exams during the years before you start your mammograms.

Family History

If you have a mother, or a sister, or a daughter who has breast cancer, then your chances of getting breast cancer nearly doubles. If two of your relatives have been diagnosed with breast cancer then your chances of getting breast cancer are almost 5 times as great. Overall, the majority of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history.

Genes

There are several genes that are research has shown when they mutate (or become abnormal) are likely to result in breast cancer. Some of the genes that are linked to breast cancer are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, CHEK2, p53. There are several others that are potentially linked to breast cancer. Click there to go to the American Cancer Society’s page on breast cancer early detection and risk factors for breast cancer.

When you period started / stopped

If your period started before the age of 12, or your continued having a period after the age of 55 are at increased risk of breast cancer.