Which of the following are recognized risk factors for developing breast cancer? (Select All that Apply.)
Age
Dense breast tissue
Family history of breast cancer
Being male
Regular physical exercise
Low-fat diet
Genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2
Correct Answer : A,B,C,G
Rationale:
A. Increasing age is one of the most significant risk factors for breast cancer. Most cases are diagnosed in women over the age of 50, although risk begins to increase after menopause. Over time, cumulative exposure to estrogen and progesterone contributes to DNA mutations in breast tissue, increasing cancer risk. Aging also reduces the efficiency of DNA repair mechanisms, making cells more susceptible to malignant changes.
B. Women with dense breast tissue have more glandular and fibrous tissue relative to fat. Dense tissue is associated with a higher risk of breast cancer because there is more epithelial tissue where tumors can develop. Additionally, dense tissue can make mammogram interpretation more difficult, delaying early detection. This combination of higher risk and diagnostic challenge makes dense breast tissue an important factor to recognize.
C. A family history of breast cancer, especially in a first-degree relative such as a mother, sister, or daughter, significantly increases a woman’s risk. This may reflect shared genetic factors, environmental exposures, or lifestyle patterns. Multiple affected relatives or early-onset breast cancer in the family further heighten the risk, suggesting possible hereditary cancer syndromes.
D. Men can develop breast cancer, but it is extremely rare, accounting for less than 1% of all breast cancer cases. Male breast tissue is mostly inactive, which reduces the likelihood of malignant changes. Therefore, being male is not considered a significant risk factor compared to female sex.
E. Regular physical activity is actually protective against breast cancer. Exercise helps maintain a healthy body weight, reduce estrogen levels, and improve immune function, all of which decrease cancer risk. It is a recommended lifestyle measure for prevention, not a risk factor.
F. A low-fat diet is considered protective because it can lower circulating estrogen levels, reduce obesity, and improve overall health. Dietary patterns rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins are associated with lower breast cancer risk, so low-fat diets do not contribute to risk.
G. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are strongly linked to breast cancer. These genes normally function in DNA repair and tumor suppression. When mutated, they fail to correct DNA damage, leading to uncontrolled cell growth. Women with these mutations have a lifetime breast cancer risk of up to 70%, making genetic testing and counseling important for high-risk individuals.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Mucus in the urine is expected in patients with an ileal conduit because the urinary diversion uses a segment of the ileum, which naturally secretes mucus. This is not an immediate concern.
B. Abdominal distention in an immediate postoperative patient may indicate bowel obstruction, ileus, or internal bleeding. These conditions can become life-threatening if not addressed promptly, so the nurse should report and intervene immediately.
C. A small amount of blood in the urine or drainage is expected in the early postoperative period due to surgical manipulation of the ureters and ileum. It is monitored but not an emergency.
D. Absent bowel sounds are common immediately after abdominal surgery due to temporary postoperative ileus. While it should be monitored, it is not immediately life-threatening unless accompanied by severe pain, distention, or vomiting.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Pericarditis typically presents with sharp, pleuritic chest pain that may improve when leaning forward, often accompanied by pericardial friction rub or fever. While chest pain is a symptom, facial redness and neck vein swelling are not characteristic, making pericarditis less likely in this scenario.
B. A pneumothorax usually causes sudden, unilateral chest pain and shortness of breath, sometimes with decreased breath sounds on the affected side. It does not typically cause facial redness or distended neck veins, so it is unlikely to explain the full set of symptoms.
C. Pulmonary embolism presents with sudden dyspnea, pleuritic chest pain, tachypnea, and possibly hemoptysis. While the patient has dyspnea and chest pain, facial redness and swollen neck veins are not typical, making PE less likely as the priority.
D. Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome occurs when the SVC is partially obstructed, often by a tumor such as lung cancer. Classic signs include facial and neck swelling, redness (plethora), distended neck veins, and dyspnea. Chest pain may also be present. This condition can become life-threatening if not promptly managed, making it the nurse’s priority to prepare for interventions such as elevating the head of the bed, oxygen therapy, and notifying the healthcare provider immediately.
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