Breast Cancer: Who Is at High Risk?

Breast cancer is a common issue that can affect anyone. It’s important that as you get older, you understand your risks for breast cancer and that you know when it might be time to seek out help and testing. While breast cancer can affect anyone, there are certain factors that may increase your risk of dealing with it. Our general surgeons at Suburban Surgical Associates/Suburban Metabolic Institute in Berwyn and Elmhurst, IL, and serving LaGrange, IL, can explain what might increase your risk of dealing with breast cancer.

Risk Factors for Breast Cancer

Breast cancer often develops after the age of 55 but can happen before then. It’s important that you understand what might put you at a higher risk for breast cancer so you can visit our general surgeons serving Berwyn, Elmhurst, and LaGrange, IL, for testing when it’s needed. While it’s rare, breast cancer can also occur in men.

If you’re dealing with obesity, a family history of breast cancer, or radiation exposure for other cancer treatments, your risk of breast cancer increases. Other risk factors include:

  • Early menstruation
  • Late menopause
  • First pregnancy after 30
  • Benign breast disease

If you have more than one risk factor, your doctor might recommend testing at an earlier age. You can check your breasts at home and look for any lumps or abnormal growths. Your doctor will perform a mammogram to check inside the breasts for any signs of concern. If breast cancer is identified, our doctor will start creating a treatment plan to remove the lumps.

Contact Our Doctors Today

Breast cancer can happen to anyone and it’s important that you know what puts you at a higher risk. Contact our general surgeons at Suburban Surgical Associates/Suburban Metabolic Institute in Berwyn and Elmhurst, IL, and serving LaGrange, IL, to learn more about breast cancer risk factors. Call for more information today at (708) 484-0621.

Please call our office number (708)484-0621 for all questions and appointment requests.