Genomics and Health

Breast and Ovarian Cancer and Family Health History

Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer in women. During an average lifetime, a woman’s risk to develop breast cancer is about 1 of 8 or 12%. Ovarian cancer is less common; affecting about 1 out of every 70 women (less than 2%) during their lifetime. Women with ovarian cancer are much more likely to die of their disease than women with breast cancer. Most breast and ovarian cancers occur in women after the age of 60. Learn more about breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

The Importance of Family Health History

Family health history is an important factor affecting a woman’s risk for developing breast and ovarian cancer. Every woman should be aware of these cancers in her family. In general, the more close relatives who have had breast or ovarian cancer, and the earlier their ages of diagnosis, the greater a woman’s risk. Close relatives include parents, sisters, brothers, children, aunts, uncles, grandparents, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

The majority of women in the general population have family histories that mean they are at average risk. Some women with breast or ovarian cancer in their families will have a somewhat increased or moderate risk. Only about 2% of women will have a family history that is considered strong.  In some families with a strong history, genetic testing may be helpful. 

To understand if you could have an increased risk for breast or ovarian cancer based on your family health history, see family history risk categories for more information.

Read quick facts about Breast and Ovarian Cancer and Family Health History.

 

Keep reading to understand your risks for breast and ovarian cancer and whether genetic testing might be right for you:

• Family Health History
• Family History Risk Categories
• Genetic Testing Information and Recommendations Based on Family History
• Genetic Counseling and Evaluation for BRCA1/2 Testing
• Quick Facts about Family Health History, BRCA1/2 Genes, and Genetic Testing

 

The CDC Office of Public Health Genomics makes available the above information as a public service only. Providing this information does not constitute endorsement by the CDC.  Note that some links may become invalid over time.

Top of Page