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According to official figures, only between 5-10% of breast cancer is caused by genetic influences. But even though the percentage is relatively low, the numbers are high enough to warrant many women and men seeking regular checkups. Yes, men get breast cancer, too. Only about 0.7% as often as women, but it does occur, killing about 12,000 men per year.

Being female alone increases one’s odds of contracting breast cancer relative to men by 133:1. A leading theory indicates that the most likely cause of this is due to the higher percentage of estrogen and progesterone in females. These hormones play a role in cell growth and reproduction, and seem to have an effect with the growth occurs uncontrollably- for instance, breast cancer.

One genetic factor that may not seem genetic at first blush is the increased risk that comes with aging. Growing older, at what rate and in what way, is heavily influenced by genetics. Genetics determines the kind of physiology we have and that in turn plays a prominent role in aging, as researchers in the field are finding out.

About 17% of invasive breast cancers occur in women in their 40s. But, a whopping 78% of those who contract the disease are in their 50s or older. That shouldn’t be surprising by now. It’s commonplace to observe that cancers are more likely the older one gets. Take care not to turn the statement around, though. It’s not correct to say that 78% of women 50 or older get breast cancer. In fact, the number is about 1 in 12 or only 8%.

One huge genetic risk factor doesn’t come from normal genes, rather comes from genetic mutations. The most common gene mutations are labeled BRCA1 and BRCA2. These genes usually assist in manufacturing proteins that assist in the prevention of abnormally growing cells. Mutations or change in them that alter that ability cause an increase in the odds of breast cancer development. According to some studies, having these particular gene mutations raises an individual’s odds of developing breast cancer to 80%.

Typically those mutations are inherited and not produced by an individual’s environment, diet or any other factors that could be controlled. Women whose mother’s have had breast cancer are at a greater risk for developing the condition themselves. Obviously women do not inherit genes from siblings, but having a sibling that has contracted the disease does increase one’s risk.

Another gene mutation that may play a role is the ATM (ataxia-telangiectasia mutation), involving a gene which plays a role in repairing DNA strands. Breast cancer risk is doubled when yet another, the CHEK-2 gene, mutates. Mutations in a gene called the p53 increase the odds, since it works to suppress tumor growth. Fortunately, these are all fairly low likelihood occurrences.

Until gene therapy becomes more advanced, there’s nothing a woman or man can do to alter the genetic endowment they’ve received. But knowing the risk factors can provide information that is helpful in prompting diagnosis. Knowing you have a family history that contains an individual with Cowden Syndrome, for example, provides incentive to seek early and frequent checkups.