Family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer? Check your risk

Many people worry that they have a greater than average risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer because of their family history. In fact, it is quite rare to develop cancer because of an inherited faulty gene. Only 5–10% of cancers (or less than 10 out of 100 cases) are thought to be clearly linked to an inherited faulty gene (familial or hereditary cancer).

If someone in your family has had breast and/or ovarian cancer and you’re worried there may be an inherited genetic link, you can use OPERA, our online self-assessment tool, to help check your risk. OPERA asks you questions about your family history and provides personalised information and support in the comfort of your own home.

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Please note that we do not intend this program to take the place of professional genetic counselling services. If you’re concerned about your genetic risk, you should consult your doctor.

Concerned about breast cancer?

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the UK, making up almost 30% (3 in 10) of all cancers in women. About 1 in 9 women in the UK will develop breast cancer at some time in their life. This is the risk for all women in the general population. So, because breast cancer is relatively common, more than one woman in the family may develop it by chance. Approximately 300 men are diagnosed with breast cancer every year, so OPERA is designed for both male and female users.

You might find it helpful to see our section about genetics and breast cancer|.

 

Concerned about ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women in the UK. In the UK the lifetime risk of a woman developing cancer of the ovary is about 1 in 50, or 2%. Over 80% of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are over 50, though it can occur in younger women.

Our section on genetics and ovarian cancer| might also be helpful.

The general population risk for women in the UK of 1 in 9 for breast cancer and 1 in 50 for ovarian cancer might be increased for some women with a strong family history of either or both of these cancers. OPERA is designed to give personalised information about this risk based on the user's individual family history details.