Family History of Breast Cancer
Less than 10% of breast cancer cases are genetically inherited.1 Most women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease.
If you have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling or child) who has had breast cancer, you have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
If you have a family history with one or more first-degree relatives who have had cancer in both breasts (bilateral breast cancer), particularly before menopause, you may have genetically inherited breast cancer. A genetic counselor can help you assess your risk, and the risk of others in your family.
Your risk of not developing breast cancer in your lifetime is much greater than your risk of developing breast cancer. Remember to always talk to your doctor about your breast cancer concerns.
If you have more questions about family history and its relationship to breast cancer, please call the 24-hour Y-ME National Breast Cancer Hotline.
October 2007
1American Cancer Society, Breast Cancer Fact and Figures, 2005-2006. http://www.cancer.org/downloads/STT/CAFF2005BrFacspdf2005.pdf#page=10
