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Cancer is one of the most common but deadly diseases of the 21st century. It has a huge impact on our society, and studies show that it is among the leading causes of death worldwide. In 2018, there were 9.8 million deaths because of cancer, and the number is said to cross 16 million by the year 2040 (1). While there are several causes that lead to cancer, a few lifestyle changes may reduce the risk of it. After lung cancer, breast cancer is one of the most common types of invasive cancer, and women are predominantly the victims of it (2).
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While there is no evidence that suggests the exact cause of breast cancer, several factors contribute to increasing its risk. Here are a few factors that increase the risk of breast cancer (3) (4):
- Gender
While breast cancer is not uncommon among men, being female puts you at greater risk of developing breast cancer compared to men.
- Age
Another factor that contributes to an increase in the risk of developing breast cancer is age. The older you are, the more likely you are to be prone to cancer. Most breast cancers are diagnosed after the age of 50.
- Genetics
Women who have inherited certain genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 have a higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. These genes are inherited from parents. If a close relative has had breast cancer, one’s chances of developing it are higher.
- Dense Breasts
Dense breasts are made up of connective tissue more than fatty tissue, which can make it hard to see a tumor on a mammogram. Therefore, hindering early detection. Women with dense breasts are more likely to develop breast cancer because there are more cells that can become cancerous.
- Early Onset Of Puberty And Late Menopause
Beginning your period before the age of 12 increases your risk of breast cancer. Similarly, starting menopause post 55 years exposes women to hormones longer, which increases the risk of breast cancer.
- Women Exposed To Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy medications combine estrogen and progesterone to balance post-menopausal symptoms. It helps treat signs of menopause but increases the risk of breast cancer. However, when these medications are stopped, the risk of cancer decreases.
- Exposure To Radiation Therapy
Women who have had radiation therapy to treat the chest or breast to treat Hodgkin’s lymphoma before the age of 30 are more likely to develop breast cancer at a later stage in life.
- History Of Breast Conditions
A history of a breast biopsy that found lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) increases the risk of breast cancer. If you’ve had breast cancer before, you are likely to develop it again.
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These are the factors that increase the chances of being diagnosed with breast cancer that you cannot control. However, certain factors are under your control, and you can be careful about it. Scroll below to find out:
1. Being Inactive
Exercise is extremely beneficial for your well being. Being physically inactive increases your chances of being unhealthy and aids a bad lifestyle.
2. Being Overweight
Women who are overweight or obese have a higher chance of developing breast cancer. Always ensure that you are within the normal weight range.
3. Taking Hormone Pills
Consuming pills that increase or decrease your hormone levels can be quite harmful for your body. Whether they are hormone pills to deal with menopause or oral contraceptives, avoid taking pills that alter the levels of estrogen and progesterone in your body.
4. Reproductive Health
Having a baby after the age of 30, not breastfeeding, and not having a full-term pregnancy may increase the chances of breast cancer.
5. Alcohol Consumption
The more alcohol you consume, the more your chances of breast cancer increases. It is unhealthy to consume alcohol on a regular basis.
There are several factors that are in our control, so we may be able to decrease the risk of breast cancer. However, the exact cause of breast cancer is not known. So if you are diagnosed with it, do not beat yourself up. Fight the disease and come out stronger. If this article was helpful and informative to you, share it with your near and dear ones.
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