Many factors increase breast cancer risk only slightly (such as a later age at menopause). However, there are a few factors that put women at very high risk of breast cancer.
Women at higher risk of breast cancer
Each of these factors can greatly increase the risk of breast cancer:
Some risk factors for breast cancer increase women's risk a modest amount (such as usual hyperplasia). Having more than one of these factors however, may also put a woman at higher risk.
Learn more about estimating breast cancer risk.
Breast cancer screening for women at higher risk
There are special breast cancer screening guidelines for some women at higher risk [230]. If you have a higher risk of breast cancer, talk to your health care provider about getting screened earlier and/or more often.
Learn more about breast cancer screening for women at higher risk.
Risk-lowering options for women at higher risk
If you have a higher risk of breast cancer, there are some options to help lower your risk including:
Such decisions should only be made after talking with your provider.
Updated 10/30/12