Know Your Risk

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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. 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. Men should also be aware of their risk. Any lumps, pain or changes in their breasts should be discussed with a doctor, to determine if a mammogram is needed.

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)

The risk of breast cancer is not something that is exclusive to women, men can also suffer with it.

Know Your Risk

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