Breast Cancer

Breast Cancer Risk Assessment

Certain risk factors for developing invasive breast cancer have been reported by several studies. These include:

Age: Breast cancer is more common among older women. Typically, risk increases starting at the age of 50.
Age at the start of menstruation: Women who had their period before 12 years old have a slightly higher risk. This may be attributed to earlier exposure of estrogen. Studies say that a longer lifetime exposure to estrogen increases the risk of developing breast cancer.
Age at first live birth: Women who have children later in life or those with no children have an increased risk also due to longer exposure to estrogen.
Number of first degree relative (mothers, sisters, daughters) with breast cancer.
Number of previous biopsies (whether positive or negative).
At least one breast biopsy with atypical hyperplasia.

Any unusual changes in the breast may be a sign of breast cancer:

Lumps: Not all lumps felt are cancerous. A lump that is painless, hard, immovable, with irregular edges is more likely to be cancerous. A lump in the underarm area may also be a symptom.
Changes in skin texture: Skin retraction, dimpling or consistencies like an “orange peel”, thickening of the skin.
Redness, swelling of all or a part of the breast.
Nipple changes: Inward turning nipple, nipple discharge other than breast milk.

It is important to consult with a physician when these changes are observed.