How do I know if I am at high risk for breast cancer?

Some women have a higher than average risk of developing breast cancer. You may be at a higher risk if you have:

• strong family history of breast cancer
• certain gene mutations, such as the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation
• a personal history of lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS), ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), invasive breast cancer or atypical hyperplasia
• dense breast tissue
• received radiation therapy to the breast or chest

Talk to your doctor about your risk. If you are at higher than average risk, you may need a personal plan for testing. This may include:

• mammography at a younger age
• more frequent mammography
• ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Find out more about risk factors for breast cancer.