Am I at High Risk for Breast Cancer?

Who is at high risk for breast cancer — and which risk factors can you control?

Because of certain risk factors, some women have a higher chance of developing breast cancer than others. While some risk factors are not in your control, others are more manageable.

Elizabeth Lee, MD, a general and vascular surgeon specializing in breast surgery, with USC Arcadia Hospital, part of Keck Medicine of USC, shares which risk factors to watch for, plus what steps you can take to stay in good health.

Breast cancer risk factors that can’t be changed

• Getting older
• Family history
• Starting your period before age 12
• Going through menopause after age 55
• A history of certain breast conditions
• Having dense breasts
• Radiation therapy to the chest before age 30

Family history is a risk factor that gets a lot of attention, as research continues to evolve in identifying genetic variants associated with breast cancer risk. There are counselors who will work with you and your doctor to see if genetic testing is right for you.

But most breast cancers are not genetic, Dr. Lee says. “The important thing is to be aware of your risk factors and get your screenings. We are catching cancers a lot earlier, and survival rates are increasing.”

Breast cancer risk factors you may be able to control

How proactive you are: When it comes to screenings, Dr. Lee says the best test is still the mammogram: always start there. Then, if there’s a new problem, a new pain or a new feeling, your doctor might add an ultrasound. Under certain circumstances, you might need an MRI. 

How active you are: Exercise reduces the risk of breast cancer, so talk to your doctor about a fitness plan that would work best for you.

Weight: Being overweight increases breast cancer risk. If you struggle with your weight, talk to your doctor about the best course of action for your health.

Estrogen and progesterone: Having higher levels of estrogen and progesterone has been linked to increased risk of breast cancer. “These hormones don’t necessarily cause cancer, but they can stimulate cancer’s growth,” Dr. Lee says. “For my patients who have cancer, I recommend they stop taking hormone replacement therapy.” 

Reproductive history: If you haven’t had children, you may have a higher risk of breast cancer.

Pregnancy age and breastfeeding: Having children later can increase your risk of breast cancer, but breastfeeding can reduce your risk.

If you think you might be at high risk for breast cancer, don’t panic. There are many interventions that can help, including genetic testing, seeing a high-risk specialist and starting mammograms earlier than an average-risk patient.

Topics

Kim Perez

Kim Perez is a writer and editor for Keck Medicine of USC.

Share

FacebookPostLinkedIn