Breast Cancer Risk Factors
The power of genetic risk assessments
Just as important as early detection is knowing if you are at high risk of developing breast cancer. At the Paqui and Brian Kelly Comprehensive Breast Center (CBC), you will be offered a specialized genetic risk assessment to help identify if you or your loved ones are at greater risk. You will also learn about the signs of breast cancer, causes of breast cancer and breast cancer symptoms. This genetic risk assessment saves lives and provides peace of mind for you and your family.
Some breast cancer risk factors include:
- Aging — Your risk of developing breast cancer increases as you get older.
- Genetics — About 5-10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary.
- Personal history — Cancer in one breast means an increased risk of a new cancer in the other breast or in another part of the same breast.
- Family history — Risk is higher among women whose close blood relatives have breast cancer.
- Race — Risk is slightly higher in white women than African-American women.
- Menstrual periods — More menstrual cycles because of early menstruation (before age 12) and/or late menopause (after age 55) slightly increases risk.
- Chest radiation — Radiation therapy as a child or young adult for another cancer, such as lymphoma, means a significantly increased risk.
- Alcohol — Risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed.
- Weight — Being overweight or obese increases risk.
Understanding your specific breast cancer risk factors is an important step in early detection.
For more information about genetic counseling or to schedule an appointment call 574.335.6484.
In most instances, insurance companies will cover a portion of the cost for genetic counseling and testing. If genetic testing is indicated, the genetic counselor can work with you to determine your coverage of genetic testing. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 and Genetic Information Nondisclosure Act protect patients in group health insurance plans from discrimination based on genetic information.
To schedule a mammogram at the Paqui and Brian Kelly CBC, call 574.797.9185 or schedule online.