Who is at risk for a breast cancer diagnosis?
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According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. It accounts for 23.8% of all cancers among women, with 43% of these cases diagnosed in Asia, where breast cancer incidence in some countries has continuously increased.
Age and genetics are the leading risk factors for breast cancer.
More than three out of four breast cancer cases occur in women over age 50.
Those with a family history of the disease (mother, sister, aunts or grandmothers on both maternal or paternal side) are also at higher risk, as are women with dense breasts.
Another genetic risk factor is a mutation of the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, or other genes.
Other risk factors for breast cancer include the following:
being a current smoker or having smoked for 10 or more years
having previously had breast cancer or a benign breast condition
having had radiation to the chest or breast between the ages of 10 and 30
increased exposure to the female hormone estrogen — for instance, having a first menstrual period before age 13, entering menopause after age 51, or using estrogen replacement therapy for more than five years
never having been pregnant or having a first pregnancy after age 30
being overweight, especially after menopause
drinking alcohol (cancer risk doubles with three or more drinks per day)
having a sedentary lifestyle with little regular exercise
having undergone a prior breast biopsy.
Having several risk factors doesn't mean a woman will inevitably develop breast cancer. Likewise, having fewer risk factors doesn't offer 100% protection against it.
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Copyright © 2025 by Harvard University. Original work prepared by Harvard Health Publishing in English.
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