Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer among American women. More than 230,000 cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in the United States in 2015. Here are some of the breast cancer risk factors you should discuss with your doctor.
1. Getting Older
2 out of 3 invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 and older.
2. Family History
Having a mother, sister or daughter with breast cancer doubles a woman’s risk. If two of these relatives have had breast cancer, your risk triples.
3. Genetics
About 5 to 10 percent of breast cancer cases are caused by genetics.
4. Dense Breast Tissue
For women with dense breast tissue, the risk of breast cancer is 1.2 to 2 times higher. Dense tissue also makes it more difficult for a mammogram to detect breast cancer.
5. Use of Alcohol
Women who have 2-5 drinks per day are 1-1½ times more likely to have breast cancer.
Other risk factors include being overweight, lack of physical exercise and having hormone therapy after menopause.
Source: American Cancer Society