So far, researchers know of many factors linked to the risk of breast cancer. Some factors are linked to a small change in breast cancer risk and others are linked to a larger change. Yet, we still don’t know what exactly causes breast cancer to develop at a certain time in a certain person. It’s likely a combination of risk factors. Many are still unknown.

We know having a history of breast cancer in your family is linked to an increased risk of the disease. As we learn more about how family history of other cancers or other medical conditions may also be related to risk, the importance of family history may become even greater. So that‘s why it’s very important to discuss your family’s health history – including both your mother’s and your father’s side of the family. The My Family Health History tool can help you gather this information.

It can be complicated. Discuss what you have learned about your family medical history – and your own medical history – with your health care provider. Your health care provider may use a risk assessment tool to get an idea of your personal risk of breast cancer – or may suggest genetic counseling or testing if your family health history suggests an inherited breast cancer gene mutation.

Most women with breast cancer don’t have a family history of breast cancer.

For detailed information about risk factors associated with breast cancer, see the Incidence and Risk Factors section in this tool.