No. Getting breast cancer is not a certainty, even if you have one of the stronger risk factors, like a breast cancer gene abnormality.
Of women with a genetic abnormality in BRCA1 , approximately 50% will develop breast cancer over their lifetime, whereas 50% won't. Of women with a genetic abnormality in BRCA2, approximately 50%-60% will develop breast cancer over their lifetime, whereas 40%-50% won't.[1]
Compared to either the presence of an altered BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene or age, all other risk factors are associated with a much lower probability of being diagnosed with breast cancer.
Although we cannot control our genetic make-up or our age, there are many risk factors for breast cancer that we can control. Take charge of monitoring your breast health and stay current with monthly self breast exams and annual clinical breast exams and mammograms.
The key is to not allow yourself to be consumed with worry.
A healthy lifestyle and a positive attitude contribute to maintaining wellness.
REFERENCE:
1. American Cancer Society. Glossary.
|
is a trademark of HC Search Corporation.
for free.
