Understanding your risk

Many people ask what affects their chance of developing breast cancer; and which factors lie within their control. In this video; I'll outline the main risks and the steps you can take to support your long-term breast health. Your risk is shaped by many different factors, some you can't change, and others that you can. Understanding both groups helps you make informed decisions about your breast health and overall wellbeing. The most significant risk factors are ones you can't change - starting with being female; and getting older. Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women over fifty; although younger women can also be affected. Reproductive history matters too, including: early periods; a later menopause; having children later; or not breastfeeding. Family history is one of the most important risk factors that I consider when assessing your individual risk. If a mother, sister, or daughter has been diagnosed with breast cancer; your personal risk is higher than that of the general population. Breast cancer is sometimes linked to other cancers that run in families, including ovarian, and male breast cancer. To a lesser extent, links are also seen with prostate cancer; pancreatic cancer; and melanoma. It's important to know that only around five to ten percent of all breast cancers are hereditary. Some families carry inherited gene changes; such as BRCA1, or BRCA2, that raise the lifetime risk of breast and ovarian cancer. If your family pattern raises concerns; I can refer you for genetic counselling and testing. Beyond family history, there are several lifestyle factors that you can change; and research suggests these have more impact on risk than many people realise. Adjusting these factors can support your long-term health; and may also lower your overall chance of developing the disease. A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains makes a real difference to your overall health. I recommend around seven portions a day, ideally five vegetables and two pieces of fruit. Anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric, ginger, and garlic, plus protein at every meal, also play a valuable role. Alcohol is the dietary factor with the strongest evidence linking it to increased breast cancer risk. Reducing how much you drink, or avoiding alcohol altogether, is one of the simplest and most effective changes you can make. Regular physical activity makes a real difference, and even moderate exercise such as brisk walking has a measurable impact on breast cancer risk. Maintaining a healthy weight after the menopause also matters; because excess body fat raises oestrogen levels - which can fuel some types of breast cancer. Some hormonal medications can also affect your breast cancer risk; with hormone replacement therapy raising it, depending on the type and duration. The oral contraceptive pill carries a smaller increase that returns to normal after stopping. The NHS Breast Screening Programme is another important part of looking after your breast health. Women aged fifty to seventy-one are routinely invited for a mammogram every three years through the NHS. If you have a strong family history; screening may start earlier - sometimes ten years before the standard age. It's also important to be familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel, so you can spot any changes early. Please see your GP if you notice new lumps; changes in size or shape; skin dimpling; nipple changes; or unusual discharge. Reducing your breast cancer risk is about steady long-term choices, supported by using trusted resources from the NHS, and charities such as Breast Cancer Now. If you have concerns about your family history or want personalised advice, please contact my team.