LITTLE ROCK, AR (KATV) -- This is a question that many women have. "If my mother had breast cancer, will I get breast cancer too?'' But doctors say knowledge is power, and that power could save your life.

UAMS surgical oncologist Dr. Rhonda Henry Tillman says one of the most common questions she hears is rooted in the same fear.

"One of the most common questions I get is, 'My mom had breast cancer, will I get it too?'" Tillman says.

She explains that family history can play a big role in identifying risk early, but it's not the only factor.

According to the American Cancer Society, when a mother, sister, or daughter is diagnosed with breast cancer, the risk nearly doubles. The risk can triple if two close relatives are affected.

Still, doctors emphasize an important truth. Only about 5% to 10% of all breast cancer cases are hereditary, caused by genetic mutations that are passed from parent to child.

Dr. Tillman says science is learning more about these genetic risks than ever before.

"Family history is very important. Know your family history. Know your mother's family history, know your father's family history," she says. "We can now perform genetic testing on high-risk patients. We can test for hundreds of genetic mutations that can potentially save lives, not only from breast cancer but from other cancers as well."

Some of the most well-known mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can increase a woman's lifetime risk of breast cancer by as much as 40% to 80%, depending on genetics and other factors.

These mutations may indicate what Dr. Tillman calls a "cancer syndrome." This is an inherited warning sign that can guide when and how to get screened long before cancer develops.

"Genetic mutations are cancer syndromes," Tillman explains. "If you feel a lump or have a family history of breast cancer, talk to your doctor to see if you need genetic testing."

Experts say early knowledge leads to early action, which can often save lives.

American Cancer Society guidelines recommend that average-risk women start getting annual mammograms at age 45 and switch to every other year at age 55, but women in their 40s can choose to start earlier based on their risk and their doctor's advice.

Although family history is important, most women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have strong family ties. That's why doctors say every woman should know her personal and family history and never ignore changes in her body.

Doctors also want to reinforce the message: ask questions, know your risks and take the step that can change everything.