Breast Cancer Risk Factors
Last Updated: 20 September 2024
Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer affecting women worldwide. While its exact cause is not yet fully understood, numerous studies have identified several risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
It is important to remember that the presence of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop breast cancer. Similarly, the absence of risk factors does not guarantee immunity from the disease. Many women who develop breast cancer do not have any of the risk factors mentioned above. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and participating in regular screening programs can help reduce the overall risk of breast cancer.
Breast cancer risk factors you cannot change
There are some risk factors for breast cancer that cannot be changed. These include:
- Age: The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. Older women have a higher risk than younger women.
- Family history: A family history of breast cancer may increase the risk of developing it. Women who have a mother, sister, or daughter with a history of breast cancer have a slightly higher risk.
- Inherited genetic mutations: Some inherited genetic mutations, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, significantly increase the risk of breast cancer. These mutations are relatively rare, but if present, they can significantly increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
- Personal history of breast cancer: Women who have had breast cancer in the past have an increased risk of developing another in the same or other breast.
- Breast density: Women with greater breast tissue density have a slightly increased risk of breast cancer. Higher breast density may make it more difficult to identify abnormalities during mammograms.
- Menopause: Women who enter menopause after age 55 have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer than those who reach it earlier.
Breast cancer risk factors you can change
There are several risk factors for breast cancer that can be modified by adopting certain behaviors or making conscious lifestyle choices. Here are some of the main modifiable risk factors:
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Exercising regularly can help reduce the risk.
- Unhealthy diet: A diet high in saturated fat, high-calorie foods, and low in fruits, vegetables, and fiber can increase the risk of breast cancer. Adopting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help reduce the risk.
- Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Reducing or limiting alcohol consumption can help reduce the risk.
- Overweight and obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing breast cancer, especially after menopause. Maintaining a healthy body weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce the risk.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Prolonged use of hormone replacement therapy, especially estrogen and progestin combined, may increase the risk of breast cancer. If possible, discuss alternative approaches to managing menopausal symptoms with your doctor.
- Exposure to ionizing radiation: Exposure to ionizing radiation, such as that received during prior radiation therapies, may increase the risk of breast cancer. It is important to report any previous exposure to your doctor.
- Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding may slightly reduce the risk of breast cancer for both mother and baby. Breastfeeding for a longer period may have protective benefits.
BRCA gene mutations
BRCA is short for Breast Cancer gene. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are considered significant risk factors for the development of breast and ovarian cancer. These genes are responsible for the production of proteins that play an important role in DNA repair and prevention of the occurrence of harmful genetic mutations.
Inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can significantly increase the risk of breast cancer. Women with a BRCA1 mutation have an estimated lifetime risk of developing breast cancer ranging from 40% to 87%, while women with a BRCA2 mutation have an estimated risk ranging from 45% to 84%. In addition, these mutations also increase the risk of ovarian cancer and other cancers, such as pancreatic and male breast cancer.
Women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation may consider several options to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer, such as regular surveillance with more frequent clinical examinations and mammograms, chemoprevention (use of drugs to reduce risk), or preventive surgery, such as prophylactic mastectomy (preventive removal of the breast) or ovary-hysterectomy (preventive removal of the ovaries and uterus).
It is important to note that the presence of a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation does not mean that a person will necessarily develop breast cancer, but it significantly increases the risk. Genetic testing can be done to detect BRCA gene mutations in people with a family history of breast cancer or other related cancers. However, it is advisable to discuss with a genetic counselor or medical specialist before undergoing genetic testing to fully understand the implications and risk management options.
Breast cancer screening
Breast cancer screening is a diagnostic process to detect breast cancer at an early stage, even before obvious symptoms appear. The most common screening exam is mammography, an X-ray of the breast that can detect tumors or abnormalities before they are noticeable by touch. Screening mammography is generally recommended for all women over the age of 40, but guidelines may vary by country and health care organizations. In some cases, complementary examinations such as breast ultrasound or breast MRI may be recommended. Regular participation in breast cancer screenings can help in early detection and timely treatment of the disease, increasing the chances of cure and reducing mortality associated with breast cancer.
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