Early detection decreases breast cancer mortality, the ACR recommends annual mammographic screenings beginning at the age 40 for women of average risk. Higher-risk women should start mammographic screening earlier and may benefit from supplemental screening modalities. For women with genetics-based increased risk (and their untested first-degree relatives), with a calculated lifetime risk of 20% or more or a history of chest or mantle radiation therapy at a young age, supplemental screenings with contrast-enhanced breast MRI are recommended. Breast MRI is also recommended for women with personal histories of breast cancer and dense tissue, or those diagnosed by age 50. Others with histories of breast cancer and those with atypia at biopsy should consider additional surveillance with MRI, especially if other risk factors are present. Ultrasound can be considered for those who qualify for but cannot undergo MRI. All women, especially black women and those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent should be evaluated for breast cancer risk no later than age 30, so that those at higher risk can be identified and can benefit from supplemental screening.
Generally, women who have a first-degree relative (mother, sister or daughter), multiple second or third-degree relatives (grandparent, aunt or cousin), or those who were diagnosed with breast cancer under the age of 50, are considered at increased risk of developing the disease.
In addition, your chance of developing the disease increases if you have one or more of these breast cancer risk factors:
Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
Breast cancer in a male relative
Genetic testing indicating a mutation in certain genes (BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes)
Pre-cancerous breast biopsy
Dense breast tissue
Chest radiation as a treatment for cancer under age 30
Additional risk factors include:
Age of your first period (starting at age 11 or before)
Age of menopause (starting menopause after age 55)
Use of estrogen-containing drugs
Lifestyle behaviors and habits (weight, exercise, alcohol consumption)