Question

A nurse is collecting a health history from a female client who is undergoing screening for breast cancer. Which of the following factors should the nurse identify for placing the client at the greatest risk for developing breast cancer?

a) Late menopause
b) First childbirth before age 30
c) Nulliparity
d) Hormone replacement therapy

Answer 1

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a significant risk factor for breast cancer and places a female client at a greater risk when compared to other factors like late menopause, first childbirth before age 30, and nulliparity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student question is about identifying the factor that puts a female client at the greatest risk for developing breast cancer. Among the options provided, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is known to be a significant risk factor for breast cancer. While late menopause, first childbirth before age 30, and nulliparity are also considered risk factors, HRT has been linked with an increased risk because it involves the intake of hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, which can stimulate breast cell growth and potentially lead to breast cancer. Moreover, HRT is often avoided or cautiously used by doctors due to its association with increased breast cancer risk, along with its potential to cause blood clots or contribute to other cancers.