There are many risk factors that increase a woman's risk of developing breast cancer. It is important to realize that these are risk factors only and having a risk factor does not mean someone will develop breast cancer, it just means that the risk may be higher than if a person did not have that risk factor, all other things being equal.
As women get older, their risk of developing breast cancer increases; age is a risk factor of breast cancer. Also well known is that a family history of breast cancer does play a prominent role in one's risk of developing breast cancer. This family history can be a mother, sister, grandmother or any other first or second degree relative. It is important to point out though that nearly 75% of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history at all. If in the past, a woman has had a breast cancer, she is at increased risk of developing a subsequent one, in the other breast for example. In other words, a woman's personal history is a strong risk factor.
In about 5% of women with breast cancer, there is a strong familial history which is likely genetic. There are now several genetic tests that can be done to determine whether a woman has a genetic mutation that can increase her chance of developing breast cancer. These tests can also help assess her family's risk since this is passed down to children of women and men with this mutation. The gene mutations are termed BRAC1 and BRCA2. Family members who harbor mutations in these genes have a 60% to 80% risk of developing breast cancer in their lifetimes, as well as possible increased risks of other associated malignancies, such as: ovarian or pancreatic cancers. These tests are typically performed on women with a diagnosis of breast cancer. Knowing he/she has the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene can help a person make decisions regarding their own treatment and to help guide their daughters or other family members who may also have the mutation.
A genetic counselor can help to get the test performed and more importantly discuss the importance of this testing and its implications. The physicians at ARC routinely refer patients to genetic counselors in the area if the circumstances make sense to do so.
Other physical factors can put a woman at increased risk of developing breast cancer, including race and ethnicity. Women who had their first period at an earlier age or gave birth to their first child at a later age or have had no children are also at an increased risk for developing breast cancer.
There are also some environmental factors that are associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer. They include the use of certain oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapies, alcohol intake, smoking, being overweight, and having a previous history of radiation therapy.
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