Breast cancer is the cancer that starts in the breast cells. Many kinds of breast cancer exist depending on where it starts and how it progresses. Some are more prevalent than others. The different kinds all have unique risks and likelihood of a cure.

The American Cancer Society estimates that one in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point during their lives. Though not as prevalent as other diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, breast cancer is widely feared because of the associated risks of death, illness, and disfigurement. A particular woman's breast cancer risk is dependent on many complicated factors which are not yet well understood.

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.

The precise causes of breast cancer, and its risks, remain elusive and a subject of intense study. However, physicians and scientists have developed tools to help a woman better understand her unique risk profile, estimate her unique risks, and take any actions towards reducing those risks which can be reduced, such as obesity. Some of these tools are available online through the websites of major universities and other institutions dedicated to the study and treatment of breast cancer.

Merely the word tumors is often enough to strike fear. However, this simply means an abnormal growth; there is no definitive link with cancer. Although it is natural that women are nervous about any lumps, it is always best to discuss such findings promptly with your doctor before worrying too much as the majority turn out to be non-cancerous and benign.

Any breast abnormality should be reported to a doctor, who will follow up with the appropriate tests to determine the nature of the abnormality. Screening tests, including the mammogram, should be performed on a routine basis as recommended by a physician. Much more information regarding breast cancer and breast cancer risk is available online, and through your health care professional.