Breast Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

6. What is the most important risk factor for breast cancer?

Genetic Risk Factors Genetic Risk Factors - opens in new window
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Older age is a major risk factor. Three-fourths of all breast cancers occur in women age 50 or older. Having a sister, mother, or daughter who has had breast cancer also increases your risk.

This chart shows what the approximate chances are of a woman getting invasive breast cancer in her lifetime.

Ages Chances
30 to 40...     |    Chances are 1 out of 227
40 to 50...     |    Chances are 1 out of 68
50 to 60...     |    Chances are 1 out of 41
60 to 70...     |    Chances are 1 out of 27
70 to 80...     |    Chances are 1 out of 25
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