Breast cancer risk assessment: near population risk

This leaflet is for women with near population risk of breast cancer (following a family history risk assessment). The information has been produced by Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and the East Kent Hospitals’ Breast Cancer Nurse Specialists.

If you have any queries, please contact the:

• Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Service
  Telephone: 01227 868666
  Email

What is near population risk of breast cancer?

Breast cancer is a common disease. In the general population about one in eight women in the UK will develop breast cancer. Near population risk of breast cancer means that your risk of developing breast cancer is estimated to be similar to other women in the general population.

Although breast cancer is common, having an inherited tendency to developing breast cancer is quite rare. Only about 5 to 10% of all breast cancers happen because of an inherited tendency (also called a genetic predisposition).

Women with near population risk of developing breast cancer are unlikely to have an inherited tendency to develop breast cancer.

Do women with a near population risk of breast cancer need screening?

Yes. Screening for women with a family history of breast cancer is based on nationally recommended guidelines. These can be found on the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence website.

You will be offered a mammogram every three years from 50 to 70 years of age as part of the National Breast Screening Programme. This programme is being extended to invite women in their late 40s and up to 73 years. Women over 70 can request that breast screening continues every three years if they wish.

For more information, please ask a member of staff for a copy of the NHS breast screening: helping you decide leaflet.

You do not need a mammogram more often because:

• breast cancer is easier to see on a mammogram after the menopause

• if breast cancer does occur, it is likely to grow more slowly in women aged 50 or over

• breast tissue in young women can be too ‘dense’ (tightly packed) for a mammogram to be helpful, when there is no increased risk of breast cancer.

All women are encouraged to be breast aware. Contact your GP if you notice any changes in your breasts. Please do not wait until your next mammogram.

Can anything alter breast cancer risk?

Yes, the following can alter the risk.

• The oral contraceptive pill and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) slightly increase the risk of breast cancer while a woman is taking it, and for up to five years after it is stopped.

• Alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer.

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding lower the risk of breast cancer.

• Being overweight increases the risk of breast cancer for women after the menopause.

• Regular exercise lowers the risk of breast cancer.

• Eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and lowering cholesterol intake helps lower the risk of cancer.

• If anyone else in your family develops cancer, particularly breast or ovarian cancer, then this could alter your risk. If this happens, please ask for a reassessment of your risk.

Useful contacts

• Breast Cancer Now
  Telephone: 0808 800 6000

• Macmillan Cancer Support
  Telephone: 0808 800 0000