Contents
Breast Cancer: What You Need to Know
Published: Sep 06, 2023
Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women worldwide, and understanding its causes is crucial. This article breaks down the factors influencing breast cancer risk and the biology behind it.
Understanding Breast Cancer Risk
Breast cancer risk is influenced by both natural and external hormone factors. Natural factors include early menstruation, having no children, or having a first child at an older age. External factors can be hormone therapies used during menopause. These elements affect the breast's development and hormone exposure, which can increase cancer risk.
Breast Anatomy and Cancer Development
The breast comprises skin, tissue, and ducts that connect to the nipple. Cancer often originates in the terminal ductal lobular unit (TDLU), which is the functional unit of the breast. Differences in these structures can influence the likelihood of developing cancer.
Hormones and Breast Cancer
Both estrogen and progesterone play significant roles in breast tissue development and cancer risk. Estrogen promotes cell growth, and when combined with progesterone, it influences breast development. Hormone receptors in the breast can make it more susceptible to cancer when exposed to these hormones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Factors like early menstruation, late childbirth, and hormone therapies increase risk.
Cancer often begins in the breast's functional units called TDLUs.
Yes, hormones like estrogen and progesterone increase risk by promoting cell growth.
Key Takeaways
Understanding breast cancer risk factors helps in early detection and prevention strategies.
References
- Siegel R, Ward E, Brawley O, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2011: the impact of eliminating socioeconomic and racial disparities on premature cancer deaths. CA Cancer J Clin 2011; 61:212.
- Russo IH, Russo J. Mammary gland neoplasia in long-term rodent studies. Environ Health Perspect 1996; 104:938.
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.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?