Family history, aging , gender, obesity, menstrual and alcohol can put you at risk of breast cancer?

Yes having a family history of breast cancer, particularly women with a mother, sister or daughter who has or had breast cancer, may double the risk.Some inherited genetic mutations may increase your breast cancer risks. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are the most common inherited causes. Other rare mutations may also make some women more susceptible to developing breast cancer. Gene testing reveals the presence of potential genetic problems, particularly in families that have a history of breast cancer.

On average, women over 60 are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer. Only about 10 – 15 percent of breast cancers occur in women younger than 45. However, this may vary for different races or ethnicities.

Gender doesn't always play a part of Although nearly 2,000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer each year, breast cancer is 100 times more common in women. The National Cancer Institute estimates that over 190,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer annually.

Obesityis fat tissue may contribute to increases in estrogen levels, and high levels of estrogen may increase the risk of breast cancer. Weight gain during adulthood and excess body fat around the waist may also play a role.

Women who start menstruation at an early age (before age 12) and/or menopause at an older age (after age 55) have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer. The increase in risk may be due to a longer lifetime exposure to the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Studies indicate that the more alcohol a woman drinks, the greater her risk cancer.

National Breast Cancer Awareness month is a chance to raise awareness about the importance of early detection of the breast cancer. Make a difference! Spread the word about mammograms and encourage communities, organizations, families and individuals to get involved.