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The government is now operating in accordance with the Guidance on Caretaker Conventions, pending the outcome of the 2025 federal election.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is any factor that is associated with an increased chance of developing a certain condition, such as breast cancer. There are different types of risk factors, some of which can be changed or modified, and some which cannot.

Risk factors for breast cancer can include personal factors, family history and genetic factors, reproductive, lifestyle and environmental factors and medical history and medications.

Having one or more risk factors does not mean that you will develop cancer. Many people have at least one risk factor but will never develop cancer, while others with cancer may have had no known risk factors. Even if a person with cancer has a risk factor, it is usually hard to know how much that risk factor contributed to the development of their disease.

Read more below to find out more about factors that are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

Last updated 15 November 2024
Cancer Australia

Cancer Australia was established by the Australian Government in 2006 to benefit all Australians affected by cancer, and their families and carers. Cancer Australia aims to reduce the impact of cancer, address disparities and improve outcomes for people affected by cancer by leading and coordinating national, evidence-based interventions across the continuum of care.

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