CancerBACUP has published the results of a survey revealing that more over 50s believe that family history - not age - greatly affects breast cancer risk. At the same time the leading cancer information and support charity has published a leaflet aimed at increasing understanding among the general public of the real risk of inheriting breast cancer.
The survey of more than 300 hundred readers of Yours Magazine, aimed at women aged 50+, shows six out of ten thought having one relative with breast cancer greatly increased breast cancer risk. Conversely, only one in ten felt that age affects risk a great deal.
In reality, age is the greatest risk factor for breast cancer - about 80% of cases develop in women over 50. Furthermore, most cases are not inherited - only 5 to 10% of breast cancers are thought to be caused by a faulty gene that runs in the family.
The new CancerBACUP leaflet explains the real risks of breast cancer and put this relatively minimal genetic risk into perspective. The leaflet is aimed at alleviating the concerns of the 'worried well' while ensuring that the minority who may be at higher risk seek referral.
The leaflet points out that it is only likely that a faulty gene that can increase breast cancer risk is present in your family, if you have: