A common misconception among women is that because they have no family history of breast cancer, they won't get it. Having a family history of breast cancer means that one or more of a woman's close blood relatives have been diagnosed with the disease (a first-degree relative such as a mother, sister, or daughter), especially before menopause. Do you have a family history of breast cancer? Find out how substantial your risk of developing breast cancer is.
Your Breast Cancer Risk
A woman's risk of developing breast cancer may be slightly increased if one or more second-degree relatives (aunt, niece, or grandmother) have or have had it. If you feel you have an elevated risk, talk to your doctor about your risk of breast cancer.
In the majority of cases, breast cancer occurs in women who don't have a family history of the disease. The genetic component of breast cancer is actually relatively small, and most breast cancers are a result of other factors. The two main reasons why women develop breast cancer can't be controlled: being a woman and aging.
Additional Breast Cancer Risk Factors
Some of the other risk factors for breast cancer include:
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A previous breast cancer diagnosis
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Not having children or having them after the age of 30
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Dense breast tissue
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Early menstruation/Late menopause (after age 55)
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Post-menopausal hormone therapy
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Alcohol use
There are a number of possible risk factors that are associated with breast cancer, including a family history of breast cancer, but more research and evidence is required before a definitive link is made. These potential risk factors include smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke and lack of physical activity. Factors that are considered inconclusive or unknown include consuming a high-fat diet and soy products, or being exposed to certain contaminants.
Family History & Breast Cancer Screening
If you have a family history of breast cancer, your doctor may recommend more frequent breast screening exams, such as mammograms and breast MRI. Some women with a family history of breast cancer opt for genetic testing to try and determine their risk of developing the disease, although it does have limitations. Genetic testing is a personal choice and some women with a strong family history choose not to undergo screening.
Remember that most cases of breast cancer aren't related to a woman's family history.