Age and health history can affect the risk of developing breast cancer.
By J KateCA
February 9 at 5:35
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Anything that increases your chance of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer; not having risk factors doesn't mean that you will not get cancer. People who think they may be at risk should discuss this with their doctor. Risk factors for breast cancer include the following:
•Older age.
•Menstruating at an early age.
•Older age at first birth or never having given birth.
•A personal history of breast cancer or benign (noncancer) breast disease.
•A mother or sister with breast cancer.
•Treatment with radiation therapy to the breast/chest.
•Breast tissue that is dense on a mammogram.
•Taking hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
•Drinking alcoholic beverages.
•Being white.
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Eaststar634 February 15 at 9:541 LikeI have yet to figure out why I have developed breast cancer. I don't fall into any of the categories that have been listed above by J Kate. It's a very devastating experience, and I would not get through this without the support system that I have around me. So many people have been supportive until it is sometimes overwhelming. Self-exams are extremely important. I had just had a mammogram, and been to the doctor, and two weeks later I felt the lump. Check yoursleves regularly, and if you are diagnosed try to have supportive people around you.
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J KateCA February 16 at 3:470 LikesJust like the article said: Having a risk factor does not mean that you will get cancer; not having risk factors doesn't mean that you will not get cancer. I'm so sorry you are having to deal with this. Thanks for posting and inspiring others to do self exams and get check.
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