Understanding your risk of getting breast cancer can help you better monitor your health and take steps to reduce your chance of getting the disease. This article is the second of a three-part series to help you learn more about your health.
At what age am I most at risk of getting breast cancer?
As you age, your risk of getting breast cancer increases. In fact, about 77 percent of women with breast cancer are over 50 when they are diagnosed. Women who are between the ages of 20 and 29 account for just 0.3 percent of breast cancer cases.
What does this mean for me?
There is little you can do to minimize the increased risk that comes with getting older, but you can adjust your detection efforts.
Low risk doesn’t mean no risk. You should be aware of and start monitoring your breast health as a young adult. Once you turn 40, you should have a mammogram annually, according to American Cancer Society recommendations. The ACS also recommends getting an annual clinical breast exam starting at age 40 that includes areas not covered by mammograms.
Want to know more?
At ella health, you will find caring experts who can help you understand more about your personal breast cancer risk. We also offer a program that includes a clinical breast exam and breast self-exam education. Contact us for more information.
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