The risk of breast cancer is due to a combination of factors. Having a risk factor does not mean you will develop breast cancer, and not all risk factors have the same effect.
Risk factors you can not change:
Women are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer
Most breast cancers are diagnosed after the age of 50
Women with a family history are at an increased risk
Beginning menses early or starting menopause late can increase risk
Survivors of breast cancers are at risk of being diagnosed again
Radiotherapy to the chest can increase the risk in later life
Risk factors that can be changed:
A sedentary lifestyle puts you at a higher risk
Postmenopausal obesity can increase the risk of breast cancer
Hormonal treatment can increase breast cancer risk
Pregnancy problems can increase the risk of breast cancer
Alcohol consumption and smoking increases breast cancer risk
