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Breast cancer is a cancer which begins in the cells of the breast. There are many different types of breast cancer depending on where the cancer starts, and how it progresses. Some types are more prevalent than other types. The various types each have their own unique risks and likelihood of cure.

Estimates from the American Cancer Society say that one out of every eight women will battle breast cancer. Although it is not as prevalent as other diseases, including cardiovascular disease, breast cancer is particularly scary because of the risks of illness, disfigurement, and death it brings with it. We don't yet understand all of the complicated factors required to determine a particular woman's breast cancer risk.

There are many breast cancer risk factors. Some of these are your age, past incidences of breast lesions, your family's medical history, and genetics. If you've had abnormal biopsies in the past or been exposed to some chemicals or radiation, those can present a risk as well, although a lesser one. The age a woman first gave birth, the age of her first period, the age she went through menopause, and whether or not she is overweight may also influence the chances of getting breast cancer to a lesser degree. However, 70 percent of women who get breast cancer do not fall into these risk groups.

There is no easy answer as to why certain women get breast cancer and others do not. It is the subject of much academic study. Much information on breast cancer can be gleaned by going to the websites of colleges and organizations known to specialize in studying what factors increase the risk of getting this cancer. Talking to your doctor can help you assess how at risk you are in getting breast cancer and what you can do to reduce your susceptibility.

Although women worldwide are afraid of breast cancer, and rightfully so, most lumps are just abnormal tissue growths that turn out to be benign. These growths are usually called tumors, a term which can be applied to both cancerous and non-cancerous growths.

You should discuss any change in your breast with your physician so that he or she can make an examination and determine the best course of action. Women should have routine mammograms; their physicians can recommend the frequency. A wealth of information about breast cancer and breast cancer risk can be found on the Internet and through your doctor.

Any woman's breast cancer risk is determined by many complex factors that are not yet well understood. These factors include family history, individual genetic variation, and previous history of any breast lesion. Changes to the breast, including any noticeable abnormalities, should be immediately brought to the attention of a physician. Appropriate follow up tests can determine the nature of the problem. Thankfully, although women worldwide are afraid of breast cancer, most lumps are just abnormal tissue tumors that turn out to be benign. Tests to screen for breast cancer, such as the mammogram, should be performed as recommended by your doctor.