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    Home Knowledge Center Breast Cancer Causes and Risk Factors

    Breast Cancer Causes and Risk Factors

    Learn about what causes breast cancer, common risk factors, and how to reduce your risk.

    What causes breast cancer?

    Breast cancer occurs when breast cells mutate and become cancerous cells. These cells then divide and multiply, turning into tumors. But in terms of what causes those changes to happen, experts aren't sure.

    While there isn't a specific, single cause of breast cancer, there are several factors that can increase your risk of getting breast cancer.

    Breast Cancer Risk Factors for Women

    Here are some factors—both in and outside of your control—that can increase your chances of getting breast cancer.

    Genetic Factors

    These are factors that are passed down and cannot be changed. If you are at an increased risk due to personal and family history, your provider may recommend genetic testing and counseling. A genetic counselor will evaluate your risk on a personal basis.

    Age

    As you get older, you have a higher risk of getting breast cancer because you've been exposed to estrogen for longer.

    Race and Ethnicity

    Black women have a 5% lower incidence than White women but have a 38% higher rate of mortality.1

    Type of Breast Tissue

    Those with dense breast tissue are more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer.

    Certain Genetic Mutations

    While BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the most common types of genetic mutations, there are several other types of genes linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.

    Menstruation and Pregnancy History

    The more periods you've had, the more estrogen you've been exposed to. Women who have had a baby before age 35 are at a lower risk.

    Family History

    You're at a higher risk if your parent or child has been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer. The risk increases if they were diagnosed before age 50.

    Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

    These are factors that likely can be changed.

    Hormonal Birth Control and Other Pills

    Some hormonal therapies, like certain birth control pills, can increase your risk for breast cancer.

    Alcohol and Tobacco Use

    Those who consume moderate to high levels of alcohol or smoke cigarettes are at a higher risk for breast cancer.

    Weight

    Being overweight or obese, especially after menopause, can increase your breast cancer risk. This is because fat cells make and store estrogen.

    Sedentary Lifestyle

    You're risk of breast cancer is higher if you are not as physically active.

    Radiation Exposure

    Individuals who had radiation treatments done (especially to their chest) are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

    What are the breast cancer risk factors for men?

    Men have a slightly different set of factors that can put them at a greater risk of developing breast cancer.

    Older Age

    On average, men who get diagnosed with breast cancer are around 70 years old.

    Estrogen-related Medications

    Some hormone therapy pills that contain estrogen can increase the chances of a man getting breast cancer.

    Family History

    If you've had a close family member who has or have had breast cancer, you're at a greater risk.

    Gene Mutations

    Similar to with women, men who've inherited certain gene mutations (like the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations) are at a higher risk.

    Klinefelter Syndrome

    Roughly 1 in 1,000 men are born with Klinefelter Syndrome, which can cause higher level of estrogens (female hormones).2

    Overweight or Obese

    As is the case with women, men who weigh more or are obese have a higher breast cancer risk.

    How can I lower my risk of having breast cancer?

    While there are many things outside of your control that put you at a higher risk, you can lower your chances of getting breast cancer. Here are a few lifestyle changes you can make:

    • Drink little to no alcohol
    • Maintain a healthy weight
    • Exercise regularly
    • Limit the use of hormone therapy, if possible

    Preventive Breast Cancer Surgery

    Those who have a very high risk of getting breast cancer may choose to have preventive surgery. This is referred to as either a bilateral mastectomy or bilateral prophylactic mastectomy. In this procedure, both breasts are removed (which includes most, but not all, breast tissue) to prevent breast cancer.

    The following women may be candidates a risk-reducing bilateral mastectomy:

    • Carriers of certain gene mutations (such as BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, CDH1, PTEN, or TP53)
    • Those who have had more than one relative diagnosed with breast cancer, especially prior to age 50.

    After the surgery, many women choose to have breast reconstruction. Learn more about breast cancer treatment options. Talk with your health care provider if you have concerns about your breast cancer risk.

    Better Early Breast Cancer Detection with the Know Your Lemons App

    Are you confident about performing self-breast exams? The Know Your Lemons app can improve your chances of finding breast cancer early. Features include:

    • Self-exam audio guide, video, and report
    • Custom screening plan
    • Period tracker
    • Mammogram scheduler

    Download the Know Your Lemons app

    AskEllyn.ai: A Companion for Your Breast Cancer Journey

    Whether you were just diagnosed, are going through treatment, or have a loved one with breast cancer, you deserve support. AskEllyn.ai is a free AI companion, available 24/7. Ask questions or simply receive comfort in this private and unique chat experience.

    Start your chat with AskEllyn.ai

    Are you a Cigna Healthcare member?

    Access your benefits, discover mental and emotional support services, find in-network providers, manage your claims, and more.

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    Not a Cigna Healthcare member? We're here to help.

    Even if you're not a Cigna Healthcare member, there are many resources available to you to assist you on your breast cancer journey. Make sure to contact your insurance company to learn what cancer care benefits and services are available to you.

    Discover key questions and tips to ask about oncology benefits

    Tags

  • Breast Cancer
  • Women's Health
  • Preventive Care

    • Back to Knowledge Center

    1American Cancer Society, Breast Cancer Facts & Figures: 2024-2025, https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/breast-cancer-facts-and-figures/2024/breast-cancer-facts-and-figures-2024.pdf, accessed March 26, 2025.

    2 American Cancer Society, Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Men, https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/breast-cancer-in-men/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html, accessed March 26, 2025.

    All Cigna Healthcare® products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Healthcare, including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, or their affiliates. The Cigna Healthcare name, logo, and other Cigna Healthcare marks are owned by The Cigna Group® Intellectual Property, Inc.

    The content provided on this web site is not medical advice and is not a substitute for medical care provided by a physician. 

    AskEllyn

    Disclaimer: This content has been generated using GenAI. The AI-generated output should be reviewed by the user to ensure that the information is accurate and suitable for intended purpose.
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