Vulnerable Populations
In the United States, a woman's risk of breast cancer has increased dramatically over the last century, and today, a woman's lifetime risk is 1 in 8. But that risk isn't equal among all women: some populations are more vulnerable than others, often because of an increased exposure to toxic substances.
Depending on where you live, where you work, your socioeconomic status and your ethnic background, you might have an increased risk. Here are some of the factors that could have an effect:
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Genetics and Family History
Genetics impact breast cancer risk as do environmental exposures—and now we know they act together, too.
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Polluted Communities
Communities can be polluted by catastrophic exposures or a small, steady stream of pollution.
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Race, Ethnicity and Socioeconomics
Breast cancer risk varies among different ethnic and socioeconomic groups.
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Related Blog Posts
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05.15.13
Focus on preventing cancer (San Francisco Chronicle, 5/15/2013)
Jeanne Rizzo, president and CEO of the Breast Cancer Fund, reacts to Angelina Jolie's announcement of her preventative double mastectomy in this SF Chronicle op-ed.
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05.13.13
In memory of Barbara Brenner: a tireless, passionate and fearless breast cancer advocate
We join the vast community of breast cancer advocates and colleagues in expressing our deepest sympathies to Barbara Brenner's family and friends.
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05.08.13
J&J removes some chemicals from its baby shampoo, other products (5/6/13)
Following the lead of Johnson & Johnson, companies are beginning to reformulate products to make them safer for consumers.
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05.08.13
Beauty tips for the FDA (The Investigative Fund, 5/6/13)
In-depth article highlights the Breast Cancer Fund and explores the government's failure to regulate toxic chemicals in cosmetics.
