Table 1. Criteria for assessing a significantly increased risk of breast cancer (Cancer Research Campaign, 1997).

A woman's risk of developing breast cancer is moderately increased if she has one of the following:

• A first-degree relative with breast cancer diagnosed under 40 years.

• Two first- or second-degree relatives on the same side of the family with breast cancer diagnosed under 60 years or with ovarian cancer.

• Three first- or second-degree relatives on the same side of the family with breast or ovarian cancer.

• A first-degree relative with breast cancer in both breasts.

• A first-degree male relative with breast cancer.