Many factors may play a part in your risk for breast cancer. Some, like your age, you cannot change. Others, you can. For instance, being more active can lower your risk.
For some people, genetics play an important role. Changes in certain genes or a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer can increase your risk. But you still have choices, and there are steps you can take to protect yourself.
At Fred Hutch, we can help you understand your risk level and take action to reduce it. We look carefully at all your risk factors. Then we offer information and services that can make a difference.
- Our breast cancer screening experts can help you figure out which screening tests are right for you, based on your age, health, risk level and other things.
- The Breast Health Clinic team can assess your breast cancer risk. We can also make a screening and follow-up plan for you if you may be higher-risk for any of these reasons:
- You have a family history of breast cancer.
- You had an atypical (unusual) breast biopsy.
- You have dense breasts.
- The Clinical Genetics and Genetic Counseling Service can assess your risk level if you are at high risk because of personal or family history.
- The Breast and Ovarian Cancer Prevention Program can help if either of the following is true:
- You have a strong family history of ovarian or endometrial cancer.
- You tested positive for a gene change that increases your risk for breast or gynecologic cancer.