Contents
Breast Cancer Risk Factors: What You Need to Know
Published: Jul 25, 2024
Understanding your breast cancer risk factors can help you make informed decisions about screening and prevention. Let's explore the key factors that influence breast cancer risk.
Unchangeable Risk Factors
Some breast cancer risk factors are beyond our control. Being female is the main risk factor, as breast cancer is 100 times more common in women than men. Age is another crucial factor - the risk increases as you get older. Family history plays a role too; having a first-degree relative with breast cancer doubles your risk. Genetic factors, like BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, significantly increase risk.
Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors
Many risk factors are related to lifestyle choices. Alcohol consumption increases risk - even one drink a day can slightly raise your risk. Being overweight or obese after menopause increases risk. Lack of physical activity is also a risk factor. Hormone replacement therapy, especially combined estrogen-progestin therapy, can increase breast cancer risk if used for more than five years.
Protective Factors
Some factors can actually lower your breast cancer risk. Breastfeeding, especially for longer than a year, can provide some protection. Regular physical activity is protective, especially after menopause. Maintaining a healthy weight throughout life can also help reduce risk. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may offer some protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but it's rare - about 1% of breast cancers occur in men.
Slightly, but the risk returns to normal after stopping.
You can't prevent it, but you can reduce your risk.
No, breast size is not related to breast cancer risk.
Only about 5-10% of breast cancers are hereditary.
Wrapping Up
While some risk factors are unavoidable, focusing on healthy lifestyle choices can help reduce your breast cancer risk.
References
- American Cancer Society. Breast Cancer Risk Factors You Cannot Change. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/risk-and-prevention/breast-cancer-risk-factors-you-cannot-change.html
- National Cancer Institute. Breast Cancer Risk in American Women. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/breast/risk-fact-sheet
- World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research. Diet, Nutrition, Physical Activity and Breast Cancer. 2018.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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