1 in 9 women will develop breast cancer at some time in their life.
This is a lifetime risk, which means that for every nine women who live to be 85, one will have developed breast cancer at some time in her life. Your risk for breast cancer is influenced by many factors including gender, lifestyle and genetics.
Read more about what you can do, and discussions you might want to have with your GP.
Risk factors we can’t change
Many risk factors for breast cancer are non-modifiable, meaning they can't be changed. These include gender, age, breast density and previous breast concerns.
While you can't reduce these particular risks, you can help to ensure early detection in the unlikely event you get breast cancer. Know your normal, touch and look regularly for changes and get any changes checked by a doctor.
Reduce your breast cancer risk
There are some factors which could impact your breast cancer risk. You may wish to adopt some lifestyle changes to lower your risk of breast cancer. You can also talk with your doctor about your risk and screening if that is appropriate for you.
Factors that don’t cause breast cancer
Heard the rumour that your deodorant could give you breast cancer? Thankfully, it’s just a rumour. Read up on more breast cancer myths, and whether there’s evidence behind any of them.