Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women other than skin cancer. This year alone, approximately 212,920 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer. However, increased awareness about the importance of early detection is helping women fight this disease.
Women with a family history of breast cancer or who have previous history of breast or ovarian cancer are at increased risk for developing breast cancer. Also, women who have never had children, or had their first child after age 30, are at slightly higher risk.
University of Pennsylvania's Cancer Risk
Evaluation Program
Penn’s Cancer Risk Evaluation Program is a clinical and research program designed to evaluate a woman’s individual risk of breast and ovarian cancers and provide information on how to manage that risk. The program will:
- Help you understand the risk factors involved.
- Talk with you about your personal concerns.
- Review your family history, medical history and lifestyle risk factors.
- Talk to you about genetic testing and assist you in making a decision about this option.
- Provide a written summary of your level of risk.
- Outline a plan for continued monitoring to help you protect your health.
- Evaluate your eligibility to participate in research studies.
The program also provides information for individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer and want to learn more about the role of genetics in their diagnosis.
Finding Breast Cancer Early
The earlier breast cancer is detected the better the chances that treatment will be successful. The following are some guidelines for detecting breast cancer early:
For Women 20-39 |
- Have a breast examination as part of a regular exam every three years.
- Perform breast self-examination monthly, and report any changes to your doctor immediately.
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For Women 40 and Over |
- Have a mammogram every year.
- Have a clinical breast exam by your health care provider every year.
- Perform breast self-examination monthly and report any changes to your doctor immediately.
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The best time to perform self-examination of your breasts is a few days after your period when they are less apt to be tender or swollen.
Warning signs to look for during breast self-exam include:
- Lumps or thickening in any part of the breast or underarm area.
- Unusual swelling, warmth, or redness that does not go away.
- Change in the size or shape of your breast.
- Dimpling or puckering of the skin of your breast.
- An itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple.
- A nipple discharge other than breast milk.
- Nipple pain or the nipple turning inward.
If you are considered to be at high risk, talk with your health care provider about beginning mammograms earlier, having extra tests or having more frequent exams.
Services
The specialists at Penn offer a multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Our services are provided at the following locations:
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