The exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown. There are, however, a number of risks factors associated with this disease including:
Almost one-third of women are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
Approximately one in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point in her life. The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age: women aged 30 to 40 have a one in 252 chance of developing breast cancer;
The exact causes are unknown, however, high risk factors and advancing age, as well as a family history of breast cancer increases the chances of contracting it. Women with certain benign lumps are also at greater risk of developing breast cancer.
Foods that are known to potentially increase the risk of developing breast cancer include processed meats, sugary drinks, and foods high in saturated fats. It is important to maintain a balanced and healthy diet to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.
Older women have a higher risk of having breast cancer. Also, women who haven't had any children or have their first child after 30 are more likely to have breast cancer.
Yes
Breast cancer survivors can be at risk of developing other types of cancer, just like anyone else, but the risk varies depending on several factors. It's essential to note that having had breast cancer does not necessarily increase the risk of all types of cancer equally. Here are some common types of cancer that women may have a slightly increased risk of after breast cancer: Second Primary Breast Cancer: Women who have had breast cancer are at a slightly higher risk of developing a second primary breast cancer in either the same breast or the opposite breast. Ovarian Cancer: There is a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer among women who have had breast cancer, particularly if they have a family history of breast and ovarian cancers or carry certain genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1 or BRCA2). Endometrial Cancer: Some studies suggest that breast cancer survivors may have a slightly elevated risk of endometrial (uterine) cancer, especially if they have received tamoxifen therapy, a common treatment for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Lung Cancer: Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women, and it can occur independently of breast cancer. Women who have a history of smoking or exposure to environmental risk factors may be at increased risk. Colorectal Cancer: There may be a slightly higher risk of colorectal (colon and rectal) cancer among breast cancer survivors, particularly if they have a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors. Thyroid Cancer: Some studies suggest a possible association between breast cancer and thyroid cancer, although the overall risk is relatively low. It's important to emphasize that the increased risk of these cancers is often relatively small compared to the risk factors associated with genetic mutations or strong family histories of cancer. Additionally, advances in cancer treatment and survivorship care have improved long-term outcomes for breast cancer survivors. Breast cancer survivors should continue to prioritize routine cancer screenings, such as mammograms for breast cancer and screenings for other types of cancer based on their age, risk factors, and medical history. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and not smoking can contribute to overall cancer risk reduction. Women who have had breast cancer should work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized survivorship care plan that includes cancer surveillance and strategies for reducing the risk of other health issues. Regular follow-up appointments and open communication with healthcare teams are essential for ongoing cancer prevention and detection efforts.
As a woman ages, her risk of developing breast cancer rises dramatically regardless of her family history
Breast Cancer Risk FactorsThe exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown. There are, however, a number of risks factors associated with this disease including:Gender - Women are more likely to get the disease than men.Age - The chances of getting Breast cancer increases with age.Genetics - Approximately 5-10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to be caused by mutated genes (hereditary).Family history - The changes of getting breast cancer increases in families where are close relatives have been diagnosed or died from the disease.Race - White women are at greatest risk of developing breast cancer, yet more African-American women die from this disease.Early Menstrual Periods - The chances of getting breast cancer are greater among those women who had early periods or who experienced early menopause.
Breast Cancer Risk FactorsThe exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown. There are, however, a number of risks factors associated with this disease including:Gender - Women are more likely to get the disease than men.Age - The chances of getting Breast cancer increases with age.Genetics - Approximately 5-10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to be caused by mutated genes (hereditary).Family history - The changes of getting breast cancer increases in families where are close relatives have been diagnosed or died from the disease.Race - White women are at greatest risk of developing breast cancer, yet more African-American women die from this disease.Early Menstrual Periods - The chances of getting breast cancer are greater among those women who had early periods or who experienced early menopause.
The number one cause of breast cancer is genetic mutations, specifically in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These mutations can increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer in women. Women with these mutations have a higher lifetime risk of developing these cancers compared to those without the mutations.