Breast Cancer Risk Factors in Women

Studies from the National Cancer Institute  and the American Cancer Society  have found the breast cancer risk is higher for those women who:

• Are over age 60
• Are Caucasian
• Have a family history of breast cancer
• Had their first period before age 12 or went through menopause after age 55
• Had her first child after age 30 or never had children
• Are overweight or obese
• Are not physically active
• Drink alcohol excessively
• Have undergone radiation therapy before the age of 30

These are only some of the things that add to a woman's risk. Keep in mind that having one or more of these factors does not necessarily mean you will get breast cancer.

Log into your Blue Access^® for Members account to learn how these factors can affect your risk for breast cancer.

Be sure to talk with your doctor about any concerns.

Sources: National Cancer Institute ; American Cancer Society 

Lower Your Risk

Follow these lifestyle tips to help lower your chance of developing breast cancer as well as promote your overall health. Learn more.

Breast Cancer in Men

Breast cancer is not only a women’s illness. Even though breast cancer happens more often in women, about one out of every 1,000 men will get breast cancer in his lifetime. Learn more.

Tests for Breast Cancer

Finding breast cancer early is important. The earlier it is found, the better the chances treatment will work. Learn more.