Other risk factors include:
- Age – the risk increases as you get older
- A family history of breast cancer
- A previous diagnosis of breast cancer
- A previous non-cancerous (benign) breast lump
- Being tall, overweight or obese
- Drinking alcohol
How is breast cancer diagnosed?
You may be diagnosed with breast cancer after routine breast screening, or, as in Kate’s case, you may have symptoms that you’ve seen your GP about, notes the NHS.
See a GP as soon as possible if you notice any symptoms of breast cancer, such as an unusual lump in your breast or any change in the appearance, feel or shape of your breasts, advises the health body.
The GP will examine you and if they think your symptoms need further assessment, they’ll refer you to a specialist breast cancer clinic.
