Breast Cancer Risks
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Australia (excluding non-melanoma skin cancers), with over 20,000 women diagnosed last year. This means, 1 in 8 women will developed breast cancer before the age of 85, with the average age being in their 60s. Though the major risk factors for breast cancer cannot be changed (non-modifiable), there are some that you can change (modifiable).
What are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?
There are many different factors that influence a person’s risk of developing breast cancer.
Non modifiable risk factors
The greatest risks for breast cancer are simply being a woman and increasing age. However, several other factors can also increase risk, including:
Early onset of periods (menarche)
Not having children or having your first child at a later age
Not having breast‑fed
Previous chest radiotherapy
Dense breast tissue
Certain previous breast lesions that confer increased risk
Previous diagnosis of breast cancer
Family history or known genetic predisposition (including Ashkenazi-Jewish heritage)
Modifiable risk factors
There are also several factors that can be modified to help reduce your risk of breast cancer. I always encourage patients to focus on lifestyle adjustments that can have a meaningful impact. These include:
Maintaining a healthy weight, particularly after menopause
Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake
Reviewing the use of hormonal therapies or the oral contraceptive pill
Engaging in regular physical activity
Family History & Genetics
Family history plays an important role in determining breast cancer risk. If you have relatives who were diagnosed with breast cancer—especially at a young age—your risk can be higher. Other indicators of inherited risk include male relatives with breast cancer, bilateral breast cancers, or other cancers within the family.
There are a number of genes known to increase the risk of breast cancer, such as BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, PTEN, and TP53. Although there is much focus on these genetic mutations, it is important to remember that only around 5–10% of breast cancers are thought to be hereditary. The majority of cases occur sporadically, without a direct genetic cause.
Protective Factors
Certain lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer. Breast‑feeding is well‑known to have a protective effect. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight—especially after menopause—can also contribute to lowering risk. Adopting a low‑fat diet, as well as reducing alcohol intake, has been shown in some studies to provide additional benefit.
What does this really mean?
This means everyone has a slightly different risk for developing breast cancer. And while BreastScreen NSW offers free mammograms every two years for women aged 40 onwards, this may not be adequate for everyone. I believe that all women should be considered for tailored breast screening at age 40.
This personalised approach ensures that you receive the most appropriate imaging and follow‑up care, helping to detect any potential issues as early as possible. By taking this proactive approach, we can maximise your chances of early detection and peace of mind.
SYDNEY BREAST SURGEON
Why Choose Dr Ofri for Your Breast Care?
Choosing a breast surgeon is an important decision, and I am always honoured when patients place their trust in me. My approach to breast care is centred on compassion, communication, and excellence. I ensure that you fully understand your diagnosis, your risk factors, and your treatment options. As a highly trained breast cancer specialist and active researcher, I stay at the forefront of modern breast surgery and risk assessment. This means you receive care that is both evidence‑based and tailored to you as an individual.