Despite concerted research efforts to try and establish its exact cause, the cause of breast cancer is still unknown. However, some risk factors may raise the likelihood of developing breast cancer. Read on to learn about breast cancer risk factors and determine if you are at high risk.

What Makes Someone High Risk for Breast Cancer? 

Breast cancer risk factors increase a woman's chances of developing breast cancer. They range from lifestyle, genetics, family history, and environmental factors. One may be at a high risk of breast cancer if they have any of the following recognized factors:

1. Age

Breast cancer risk increases with age. This is because breast cells will likely sustain more damage as women age. Women over 50 are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer than younger women.

2. A Family History of The Disease.

The likelihood of getting breast cancer considerably increases if you have a first-degree relative who has the disease.

3. Lifestyle Choices

Lifestyle choices can heighten the chances of developing breast cancer. Smoking, obesity, and not getting enough exercise regularly can cause your breast cancer risk to rise. Regular alcohol use is also linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.

4. Environmental Factors

Women who have been exposed to radiation, pollutants, or carcinogenic substances have an increased risk of developing breast cancer later in life.

5. Genetic Mutations

Genetic mutations can significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer. An increased breast cancer risk has been associated with inherited genetic mutations of the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, especially in younger women.

Just because you have one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop breast cancer. Many people with at least one risk factor for breast cancer never get it, while others get it without any of these risk factors.

Do you have any of these risk factors? Contact CT Thermography online to schedule an appointment with a doctor. For more information on the risk factors for breast cancer, visit our website today.