Breast Cancer Risk Factors
What Are the Main Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?
Several factors can influence your risk of breast cancer, some you can change, and others you can’t. While things like age and family history are beyond your control, healthy habits and regular screenings can make a real difference. Working with your provider is the best way to create a personalized plan for prevention and early detection.
Factors You Can’t Change
- Age and gender: Risk increases with age and is more common in women.
- Family history and genetics: Inherited gene mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2 raise lifetime risk.
- Personal history: Previous breast cancer, certain benign conditions, or prior chest radiation may elevate risk.
- Hormonal factors: Early menstruation, late menopause, or never having a full-term pregnancy increase lifetime estrogen exposure.
- Breast density: Dense tissue slightly raises risk and makes mammograms harder to interpret.
Factors You Can Change
- Hormone therapy: Long-term hormone replacement therapy after menopause can increase risk.
- Lifestyle habits: Alcohol use, smoking, and high-fat diets are linked to increased risk.
- Physical activity and weight: Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight can lower your risk.
- Environmental exposures: Limiting contact with endocrine-disrupting chemicals may help reduce risk.
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What Is a Breast Cancer Risk Analysis?
A breast cancer risk analysis evaluates multiple influences—your family history, genetic background, hormonal exposure, and personal health behaviors—to estimate your likelihood of developing breast cancer.
At CHRISTUS, your evaluation begins with a simple online risk assessment tool and may include genetic counseling or advanced breast imaging if you have a higher-than-average risk. Our experts combine clinical data, technology, and compassion to guide you toward confident, informed prevention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can't change every risk factor, but healthy habits make a difference. Maintain a healthy weight, stay active, and limit alcohol. If you smoke, quit. Talk with your provider about when to start regular screenings and whether genetic testing is right for you and your family.
Risk of breast cancer increases with ages. Most cases are diagnosed after age 50, but it's important to know your personal risk earlier. Factors like family history, genetics, and hormone exposure can raise risk at any age. See national guidelines on when to start screening for breast cancer.
Start with what you can control, like:
- Stay at a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
- Limit alcohol
- Avoid smoking
- If you're planning to become a mom, breastfeeding may reduce your risk
- Discuss hormone therapy risks with your doctor
Early detection saves lives. Schedule mammograms and know what's normal for you through at-home self checks.
Watch for these changes and contact your doctor if you notice them:
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes (dimpling, redness, rash, or warmth)
- Nipple changes or discharge (not breast milk)
- Persistent pain in one area of the breast
In the U.S., the average woman has about a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer during her lifetime. Most cases occur after age 50, but risk factors and family history can influence this. Regular mammograms can help detect breast cancer early, when it's most treatable. Talk to your doctor about when you should start screening.
What If You’re Considered High Risk?
If your assessment shows a higher-than-average risk, the CHRISTUS care team will help create a personalized plan that may include:
- More frequent screenings such as MRI in addition to mammography
- Genetic testing and counseling
- Hormone therapy adjustments
- Preventive medications or surgeries if appropriate
Facing a High Risk of Breast Cancer
If you're in a high-risk group for breast cancer, staying informed and empowered is essential. While a higher risk can feel overwhelming, knowledge and proactive care can make a significant difference in outcomes. Here’s how to take control of your health and navigate your journey with confidence.
- Education and Knowledge: Learn about the factors that contribute to your breast cancer risk—genetics, lifestyle, hormones, and screening options. Understanding these helps you make informed decisions and stay ahead of changes.
- Open Communication: Build a strong partnership with your health care team. Ask questions, express your concerns, and work together on a plan that fits your values and goals.
- Genetic Counseling and Testing: If you have a family history or known gene mutations, consider genetic counseling and testing. This provides valuable insight into your personal risk and guides prevention strategies.
- Personalized Screening Plan: Collaborate with your provider to create a screening schedule tailored to your risk profile. This may include mammograms, MRIs, and regular clinical exams.
- Support Networks: Connect with support groups, online forums, or local communities of women who share similar experiences. Sharing stories and encouragement helps you feel understood and supported.
- Advocacy and Decision-Making: Advocate for yourself within the health care system. Choose a care team that listens, respects your perspective, and explains options clearly.
- Second Opinions: Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion when you need reassurance or another viewpoint. It’s an important part of feeling confident in your care decisions.
- Focus on Empowerment: Concentrate on what you can control—healthy habits, routine screenings, and communication with your team. Empowerment comes from being informed and taking action.
- Regular Check-ins: Schedule ongoing appointments with your care team to discuss any new concerns or changes in your risk profile. Consistent follow-up ensures that your plan evolves as your needs change.
Being high risk does not mean being powerless. With guidance from CHRISTUS Health breast care specialists, you can take meaningful steps to protect your health and well-being.
Lifestyle and Prevention
Even if certain risks can’t be changed, healthy habits can significantly lower your overall breast cancer risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight, especially after menopause.
- Exercise regularly, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Eat a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Limit alcohol and avoid smoking.
- Breastfeed if possible, which provides long-term protection for both mother and baby.
Small, consistent changes can make a meaningful difference. Our team can help you create a prevention plan tailored to your needs.
High Risk, but Not Sure Where You Should Start?
If you know or suspect you’re at higher risk for breast cancer, start with the clinician who can coordinate your plan and referrals.