Risk Factors – Breast Cancer

Research shows that certain risk factors increase the likelihood that a person will develop cancer. The most common risk factors for breast cancer include: growing older, tobacco use, ionizing radiation, exposure to certain chemicals / substances, certain hormones, a family history of cancer, alcohol use, poor diet, lack of physical activity, or being overweight.

If you think you may be at risk for cancer, ask your doctor about ways to reduce your risk and set up a regular schedule of monthly or annual checkups as needed.

Myths and Misconceptions

  • Cancer is not caused by an injury, such as a bump or a bruise.
  • Cancer is not contagious. Although being infected with certain viruses or bacteria may increase the risk of some types of cancer, no one can "catch" cancer from another person.
  • Having one or more risk factors does not mean that you will get cancer. Most people who have risk factors never develop cancer.
  • Some people are more sensitive than others to the known risk factors.

Alcohol Use

Over the years, a habit of having more than two drinks each day may increase the chance of developing cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, larynx, liver, and breast. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol that a person drinks. For most of these cancers, the risk is higher for a drinker who uses tobacco. More.

Family History of Cancer

Most cancers develop because of changes (mutations) in genes. A normal cell may become a cancer cell after a series of gene changes occur. Tobacco use, certain viruses, or other factors in a person's lifestyle or environment can cause such changes in certain types of cells. Some gene changes that increase the risk of cancer are passed from parent to child. These changes are present at birth in all cells of the body. It is uncommon for cancer to run in a family. More.

Growing Older

The most important, and unpreventable, risk factor for cancer is growing older. Most cancers occur in people over the age of 65, but people of all ages, including children, can get cancer.

Hormones (in certain forms)

During menopause, doctors may recommend hormones (estrogen alone or estrogen with progestin) to help control problems such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and thinning bones. However, studies show that menopausal hormone therapy may cause serious side effects. Hormones may increase the risk of breast cancer, heart attack, stroke, or blood clots. A woman considering menopausal hormone therapy should discuss the possible risks and benefits with her doctor. More.

Ionizing Radiation

Ionizing radiation can cause cell damage that leads to cancer. This kind of radiation comes from rays that enter the Earth's atmosphere from outer space, radioactive fallout, radon gas, x-rays, and other sources. More.

Poor Diet and Exercise, Overweight

People who have a poor diet, do not have enough physical activity, or are overweight may be at increased risk of several types of cancer.

For example, studies suggest that people whose diet is high in fat have an increased risk of Colon, Uterus, and Prostate cancers. Lack of physical activity and being overweight are risk factors for Breast, Colon, Esophagus, Kidney, and Uterus cancers. More..

Tobacco Use

Tobacco use is the most preventable cause of death. Each year, more than 180,000 Americans die from cancer related to tobacco use. Using tobacco products or regularly being around tobacco smoke (environmental or second-hand smoke) increases your risk of cancer. More..