How Much Do You Know About Your Breast Cancer Risk? 10 Key Factors to Understand

April Beaman • March 1, 2023

Breast cancer is a complex disease, and the risk factors that contribute to it are multifactorial. While certain risk factors are out of an individual's control, such as age and family history, there are other factors that people can manage or reduce their risk. Here is a list of some factors that can increase someone's risk for breast cancer:


  1. Gender: Breast cancer is much more common in women than in men.

  2. Age: The risk of breast cancer increases as people get older.

  3. Family history: If someone has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, their risk of developing breast cancer increases.

  4. Genetic mutations: Inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can significantly increase a person's risk of developing breast cancer.

  5. Previous breast cancer diagnosis: If someone has had breast cancer before, their risk of developing new cancer in the same or opposite breast is higher.

  6. Dense breast tissue: Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

  7. Hormonal factors: Factors that increase exposure to hormones, such as the early onset of menstruation, late onset of menopause, and taking hormonal contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy can increase breast cancer risk.

  8. Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol in moderation or excessive amounts can increase the risk of breast cancer.

  9. Lack of physical activity: Not getting enough exercise can increase the risk of breast cancer.

  10. Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of breast cancer, especially in postmenopausal women.


It is important to note that having one or more risk factors for breast cancer does not necessarily mean someone will develop the disease. However, if someone has a higher risk due to any of these factors, they may need to start screening at an earlier age or have more frequent screenings than the general population. People should discuss their risk level with their doctor to determine an appropriate screening plan. It is also important to remember that early detection is key to successful breast cancer treatment, so staying vigilant and informed is crucial for everyone. For more information about how you can detect breast cancer early, contact us.

Breast thermography: A female doctor holding the hands of her female patient during her appointment.
By April Beaman July 1, 2025
Discover how breast thermography offers a safe, non-invasive way for women to monitor their breast health and detect potential issues early.
Thermographic Imaging: Confident female doctor shows test results on digital tablet to smiling woman
By April Beaman June 24, 2025
Thermographic imaging highlights irregular heat patterns that may signal underlying concerns. Learn how it helps track health changes.
Thermography for Hormone Imbalance: Smiling mature woman being assured by female doctor
By April Beaman June 18, 2025
Skip the guesswork. Use thermography for hormone imbalance detection and begin your journey to better health.
Comprehensive Health Screening: elderly male patient and doctor smiling at each other in the clinic.
By April Beaman June 10, 2025
Explore how comprehensive health screening supports holistic women's health with care and prevention for optimal wellness and vitality.
Reduce inflammation in women - A senior female patient consulting with a doctor inside a clinic.
By April Beaman June 4, 2025
Chronic stress is a significant factor in causing inflammation, mainly because it leads to high levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Holistic women’s health - Female patient consulting with a female doctor inside a hospital.
By April Beaman May 30, 2025
Discover the benefits of holistic women's health. Focus on balanced prevention and care to support an overall healthy lifestyle.
A senior female patient holding a female doctor’s hand inside a hospital.
By April Beaman May 21, 2025
Breast thermography is an alternative to mammogram. This uses infrared thermography, which measures variations in temperature on the body's surface.
A doctor in a white lab coat and stethoscope is examining the thyroid gland of her smiling patient.
By April Beaman May 21, 2025
Discover how thyroid thermography detects inflammation safely without radiation for quick, non-invasive thyroid health assessment.
A female doctor will do a mammography exam on a female patient in the hospital.
By April Beaman May 20, 2025
Thermography vs. mammography: Learn how each method supports early breast cancer detection and improves screening. Read on.
A doctor thermal scanning a woman patient's back.
By April Beaman October 24, 2024
Find out if your insurance covers thermography screenings. Learn about potential benefits and factors that may influence coverage.
More Posts