The Importance of Understanding Your Family History of Breast Cancer

The knowledge of your family’s history with cancer is crucial in understanding your own risk. About 5 to 10 out of every 100 cases of breast cancer are linked to a single gene that may run in families. The most commonly affected genes in hereditary breast cancer are BRCA1 and BRCA2, which help control cell growth. Mutations in these genes can increase the risk of breast cancer, particularly at a younger age. Even without a known genetic mutation, a family history of breast or ovarian cancer can still increase your risk. It’s important to have this information to understand your chances of developing breast cancer, and seeking help from a genetic counselor can provide valuable insight. While you can’t change your genes, you can take steps to lower your risk through lifestyle choices and by understanding the importance of your genetic history, you can take proactive steps to manage your risk.