The causes of breast cancer are not fully understood, but some factors are known to increase the risk.
Happens mostly to women
Women should be aware that they are at risk of breast cancer throughout their lives, not just when they reach a certain age. Experts recommend that all women aged 35 and above receive an annual breast examination, which can detect changes in the breast that could be a sign of cancer. The best way to prevent breast cancer is to stay away from risk factors. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and maintenance of a healthy weight can help to reduce the risk of cancer.
Growing older
Age is the next biggest risk factor in developing cancer. Around 75% of all breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50. Current research shows that screening is most effective in detecting early breast cancer in women aged 50-74 years. Breast self-exams are also helpful for women in their 40s when breast tissue is denser and breast changes happen more quickly. During this time, it’s especially important to see your doctor for yearly breast exams. The American Cancer Society recommends that women aged 40 and above receive routine mammograms if they have an increased risk of cancer, such as a family history of the disease, or if they are over the age of 55.
Family history
These women are diagnosed with ‘sporadic’ breast cancer. It is not clear what increases their risk of cancer. It is thought that certain lifestyle and environmental factors may increase the risk of developing cancer in women with no family history of the disease. These factors may also increase the risk in women who have a family history of breast cancer. In fact, we know that risk factors work together. Risk factors increase your chances of getting a disease. But not all risk factors can be avoided.
Being overweight
Being overweight or obese increases the body’s level of estradiol, which is a type of estrogen. High levels of estradiol can increase breast cancer risk in certain women. High levels of estradiol are also linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is also linked to an increased risk of cancer.
Alcohol
Drinking just two alcoholic beverages per day significantly increases your risk of developing breast cancer. The risk of cancer increases with each additional standard drink per day. All alcoholic drinks have some amount of alcohol in them. The standard amount of alcohol in a drink is about 14 grams or about 1 shot. To reduce your risk of developing breast cancer, consider limiting your intake of alcoholic drinks to just one per day.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
The use of combination hormone replacement therapy by postmenopausal women for five or more years is associated with a small increased risk of breast cancer. An individual woman’s level of risk in relation to HRT will vary according to her circumstances and medical history. Women who are considering starting or who are taking HRT should always discuss their risks and options with their doctor.
Oral Contraceptive
The risk increases as a woman ages, so the risk of breast cancer from oral contraceptives goes up with a woman’s age. Most breast cancers are diagnosed in women over the age of 50. For this reason, breast self-exams and yearly mammograms are especially important for women who are on or have been on the Pill. Women who are on the Pill and have a family history of breast cancer or have been diagnosed with breast cancer should talk to their doctors and other healthcare providers about all their options.
Having a Child Late in Age or Not Having Any Children
For women who are thinking about having children and want to reduce their risk of breast cancer, the best advice is to start sooner rather than later. Studies have shown that women who have their first child before the age of 21 have a much lower risk of breast cancer later in life. Keep in mind, though, that even women who have their last child later in life can reduce their risk of breast cancer by breastfeeding for as long as possible. Even if you’re in your 40s, you can reduce your risk of breast cancer if you choose to start a family.
Age at puberty or menopause
It is not known if these factors increase the risk for every woman. Late menopause might be linked to breast cancer because women who experience late menopause have spent many years with higher levels of estrogen in their bodies than women who experience menopause at an earlier age.
Conclusion
Every woman should know the breast cancer risk factors and take precautions to safeguard her health to minimize the possibility of getting the disease. Furthermore, everyone should be aware of early warning symptoms of breast cancer so they can seek urgent medical care as soon as possible. Having breast cancer can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Immediately after being shocked and frightened about her future, a woman must make critical health care choices for the treatment.
At Sydney Breast Associate, the doctor is experienced in a Clinical Surgical Oncology Fellowship at The Royal Marsden Hospital in London, UK, and a Head/Neck/Breast/Endocrine Surgical Fellowship in Auckland City Hospital, New Zealand. With an aesthetic approach to breast cancer removal and breast conservation, Sydney Breast Associates focus on the best possible outcomes for their patients – from minimally invasive techniques to partial and total/skin-sparing/nipple-sparing mastectomy. Our breast surgeons work alongside experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeons to provide immediate breast reconstruction where possible. Book your appointment now to check the symptoms.
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