Cancer Research UK logo.
SearchDonate
  • Search

Breast cancer

Risks and causes of breast cancer

Anything that increases the risk of getting a disease is called a risk factor. Having one or more of these risk factors doesn’t mean that you will definitely get breast cancer.

Risks and causes of breast cancer

Breast cancer is now the most common cancer in the UK. Your risk of developing breast cancer depends on many factors including age, genetics and other factors such as obesity and alcohol.

Reducing your risk of breast cancer

There are some things that can help to reduce the risk of breast cancer, this includes keeping a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet and being physically active.

Family history of breast cancer and inherited genes

Some people have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than the general population because other members of their family have had particular cancers.

Last reviewed: 27 Apr 2026

Next review due: 27 Apr 2029

The Dangoor Education logo.

Dangoor Education

About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education

Patient Information Forum. Trusted Information Creator.
Plain English Campaign award.

Help and Support

An icon of a hand shake.

Find a Clinical Trial

Search our clinical trials database for all cancer trials and studies recruiting in the UK.

An icon of two speech bubbles, indicating a conversation.

Cancer Chat forum

Connect with other people affected by cancer and share your experiences.

An icon of a landline phone.

Nurse helpline

Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.