Pink Ribbon
What increases the risk?
01
Being female
Being female: approximately 99% of breast cancers occur in women.
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01
Being female
Being female: approximately 99% of breast cancers occur in women.
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02
Getting older
Getting older: most breast cancers are found in women over 50.
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03
Gene changes
Gene changes: BRCA1/BRCA2 raise risk strongly, and family history may suggest asking a doctor about testing.
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04
Personal history
Personal history: a past breast cancer diagnosis increases the chance of breast cancer again.
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05
Family history
Family history: having a close relative with breast or ovarian cancer increases risk.
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06
Chest radiation
Chest radiation: radiation treatment to the chest at a young age can raise later risk.
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07
Dense breasts
Dense breasts: can hide cancer on a mammogram and are also linked to higher risk.
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08
Reproductive history
Reproductive history: early periods, late menopause, and having a first child after 30 or never having a full-term pregnancy are linked with higher risk.
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09
Hormone therapy
Hormone therapy: using estrogen plus progesterone after menopause raises risk if taken for many years.
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10
Overweight or obesity after menopause
Overweight or obesity after menopause: extra fat tissue can raise estrogen levels, which can affect some breast cancers.
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11
Alcohol use
Alcohol use: even moderate drinking increases risk.
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12
Low activity
Low activity: regular movement helps lower risk.
Early detection
Different methods can help you notice changes and talk with a healthcare provider about breast health.
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Why it helps
Knowing how your breasts usually look and feel can help you notice changes, such as a lump, pain, or a change in size.
How to do it
Check while standing—preferably in front of a mirror—or while lying down.
Learn how to self-examine
A good time to do it
If you menstruate, check a few days after your period ends. If you are post-menopausal, choose the same day each month.
Remember: A self-exam does not replace clinical assessment or screening recommended by your healthcare provider. If you notice a change, see a doctor promptly.
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Why it helps
A healthcare professional can check for abnormalities and warning signs.
What to expect
They use their hands to examine your breasts during a clinical visit.
When to book
At least once a year, or as advised by your healthcare provider.
Remember: Talk with your healthcare provider about breast health and any changes you have noticed. Do not wait for a routine visit if you have a concern.
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Why it helps
An ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of areas inside the breast. These pictures are called sonograms.
What to expect
A trained practitioner performs the scan at a health facility.
When to book
Annually, or as advised by your healthcare provider.
Remember: Ask your healthcare provider whether an ultrasound is suitable for you and whether any follow-up is needed.
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Why it helps
A mammogram is an X-ray image of the breast used in screening and clinical assessment.
What to expect
It is performed at an imaging facility. The practitioner will guide you through positioning for the images.
When to book
Ask your healthcare provider when mammograms are recommended for you.
Remember: Talk with your healthcare provider about breast health and any changes you have noticed. Do not wait for a routine visit if you have a concern.
If you notice any change in your breasts, contact a qualified healthcare provider promptly. This site cannot diagnose or replace a clinical visit.
Resources
Reliable breast cancer information from official organizations.