Do we know enough about the things that determine our breast cancer risk?

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2023-01-24 03:00

International

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Women may not know much about a significant risk factor for breast cancer and may be unaware of how their lifestyle can impact their risk, according to international research. The researchers surveyed middle-aged to older women over the phone and recruited some for more in-depth interviews, asking them what they knew about factors that impact breast cancer risk. The researchers said a family history of breast cancer was the most common risk identified by the participants, but few were aware that breast density (having more fibrous and glandular tissue in the breasts as opposed to fatty tissue) is a risk factor. The researchers said many participants did not feel confident in their knowledge of how to reduce their risk through lifestyle choices, and they believe more education is needed so women know more about their individual risk.

Media release

From: JAMA

About The Study: Family history was perceived as the greatest risk factor for breast cancer in this study of women ages 40 to 76. In interviews, few women perceived breast density as a risk factor, and one-third thought that they could not take any actions to reduce their breast cancer risk. Comprehensive education about breast cancer risks and prevention strategies is needed.

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Research JAMA, Web page The URL will go live after the embargo ends

Journal/
conference: JAMA Network Open

Research:Paper

Organisation/s: Dartmouth College, USA

Funder: This study was supported by grant RSG-133017-CPHPS from the American Cancer Society (principal investigator, Dr Kressin). Dr Gunn was funded in part by the National Cancer Institute (K07CA221899; principal investigator, Dr Gunn).

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