Causes of breast cancer in women

Who is more likely to get breast cancer

Anyone can get breast cancer and it's not always clear what causes it.

You might be more likely to get it if you:

You may also be more likely to get breast cancer if you have higher levels of the hormones oestrogen, progesterone or testosterone. This may be more likely if you:

Many breast cancers are also linked to lifestyle, such as smoking.

If you're trans or non-binary

If you're a trans man, trans woman or are non-binary, how likely you are to get breast cancer depends on if you've had surgery, and if you're taking hormones.

How to reduce your risk of getting breast cancer

You cannot always prevent breast cancer, but going for breast screening (mammogram) when you are invited can help find cancers that are too small to see or feel.

There are also things you can do to lower your chance of getting breast cancer.

Do

  • try to cut down on alcohol and avoid drinking more than 14 units a week

  • try to lose weight if you are overweight

  • try to quit smoking

  • talk to your GP if you are worried about the affect the contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy may have on your risk of breast cancer

Genetic testing for breast cancer risk

If any of your close relatives have had breast or ovarian cancer, you may be eligible for an NHS genetic test.

A genetic test will check to see if you have a faulty gene which increases your risk of getting cancer, such as a faulty BRCA gene.

Speak to a GP about genetic testing if breast or ovarian cancer run in your family.

The GP may ask about:

The GP will refer you to a specialist breast clinic or genetics clinic for assessment if they think you are at increased risk.

You can also have NHS genetic testing for faulty BRCA genes if you're 18 years or older and have 1 or more Jewish grandparent.

Find out more

Treatments if you're at increased risk

If you have a higher risk of getting breast cancer because you have a faulty gene, there are some treatments that can help reduce your risk.

A doctor or genetic counsellor will discuss your options with you and explain the benefits and possible side effects.

Treatments to reduce your risk include: