All. If you are a woman, you are at risk of getting breast cancer. One out of every 8 women will develop the disease. This is, of course, a frightening statistic, but you should understand that this is a cumulative statistic, covering a lifetime of over 70 years.
Age is the most important risk factor for breast cancer. The statistics on risk of breast cancer at different ages vary greatly. For example, a woman in her late 30s has about a 1 in 257 chance of getting breast cancer, whereas a woman in her mid-50s has a 1 in 36 chance. The risk increases exponentially after age 30. Even in women 80 years old, the chance of developing cancer is roughly 1 in 24.
The most important thing to take away from these statistics is that, as you get older you need to become more and more vigilant about watching for the signs of breast cancer. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, monthly self breast exams, and annual clinical breast exams and mammograms become more critical with each passing year.
The key is to not allow yourself to be consumed with worry. Keeping a positive attitude is a great contributor to wellness. |