My dad (80s) has prostate cancer and his doctor told him that his children should get extra checks (he couldn’t be more specific so we don’t know exactly what he was told). My mum was diagnosed with breast cancer in her 70s, her sister in her late 70s/early 80s and my cousin
on my mums side has prostate cancer (late 50s/early 60s). I don’t know any previous family history. I am in my late 40s and have had previous mammograms for lumps and all ok and they say there is no increase in risk because they were diagnosed at an older age. Is this the case because other people disagree that there is no increase in risk and the vague message from my dads doctor has me confused. Thank you.
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Just to say that my husband had prostate cancer, so all first degree male relatives have been advised to be screened for this at aged 45 years instead of 50 years. My oncologist told me that there is no link between breast cancer and prostate cancer, although I know a man who has had both prostate cancer and breast cancer. My paternal grandmother and one paternal aunt had breast cancer but we are not sure at what age. However from what I remember of them I think they were probably 60 years old or older. I had a maternal aunt who had breast cancer at age 80. I was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer at the age of 67. I had genes tested but didn’t have any positive results. From what you said it sounds as though you are unlikely to have a higher risk of breast cancer but if you are still worried you could speak to your GP or the breast cancer nurses here.
Hi dickson
Thank you for your post.
Getting conflicting information is often confusing. Having a family history of breast and prostate cancer does not automatically mean you are at a greater risk of developing breast cancer in the future.
Most breast cancers are not inherited. There are only a small number of people who will be at a greater risk of developing breast cancer because they have a significant family history. The biggest risk factors for developing breast cancer are being a woman and increasing age.
As @BiRo says if you’re concerned that your family history is significant, talk to your GP.
It’s helpful if you can find out as much information as possible about your family history on both your mother’s and father’s side of the family, before this discussion. Our information about family history risk assessment explains what details your doctor needs to know in order to assess you. You will see from the information in the previous link about who should be referred for assessment.
In men, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. Having older members in your family with prostate cancer does not usually increase your risk of breast cancer but it’s worth discussing this with your GP if you haven’t done so already.
However, it’s important for women of all ages to be breast aware and report any new breast changes so these can be assessed.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to additional support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK -prefix 18001).
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Best wishes
Grete
Breast Care Nurse
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