Are you at risk for breast cancer?

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. Although every woman is at risk, this risk increases with age. the lifetime The risk of breast cancer is diagnosed in one in eight women – which means that breast cancer will be diagnosed in about 12% of women.

Every woman is unique and the risk of breast cancer varies according to many factors. That's why it's important to talk to your doctor openly and honestly about your family history and some important lifestyle factors. The good news is that only 5 to 10% of cancers are genetically linked to family history. And even if you can not control your hereditary patterns, you can control the lifestyle factors that have been shown to reduce your risk of breast cancer diagnosis.

Some known risk factors for breast cancer

Genetics: family history of your mother and father

Being overweight or obese

Lack of physical activity

Prolonged hormone replacement therapy during menopause

Smoking

Choose to be an empowered patient. Healthy weights and positive lifestyle choices are associated with a reduction in the risk of breast cancer. Although it's never too late to make changes, earlier in life you adopt a healthier lifestyle, less your risk may decrease.

Do not forget that this is called "lifestyle" because you are there for life! Aim for the changes you can make in the long term. Talk to your doctor for additional support and medical management of risk factors if you find that your risk is higher. There is help when you need it, so do not hesitate to ask!

Madelyn Fernstrom, PhD is the editor-in-chief of NBC News Health. Follow her on Twitter @drfernstrom.

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