Breast cancer is the most common cancer found in women. When breast cells begin to grow abnormally and form into a hard lump or mass, they develop into breast cancer. The risk factors for breast cancer can be divided into – lifestyle and genetics.

Drinking alcohol – Few drinks a week can increase the risk of breast cancer in women. Alcohol can raise estrogen levels in the body, which is why it increases the risk.

Overweight or obese – Obesity can cause breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Too much fat in the body can raise estrogen levels. Besides this, overweight women tend to have higher blood insulin levels which further causes breast cancer.

Exercise – Higher the physical activity, the more fit your body is. Being physically active reduces the chances of breast cancer, especially in post-menopausal women. An adult woman should have 30 minutes of daily moderate to intense exercise that includes swimming, fast pace walking, and running. 

Late pregnancy – Women who never had children or had their first child after 30 years of age are at increased risk of contracting breast cancer.

Not breastfeeding – Breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast cancer. Breastfeeding makes the breast cells act normally and prevents any unwanted growth. Women who breastfeed their children had a 30% lower risk of breast cancer. 

Using hormonal birth control and hormonal birth therapy – Hormonal birth control like oral contraceptives, IUDs increase the risk of breast cancer. Hormone therapy for menopausal treatment with estrogen and progesterone treatment may help in the short term but in long term, it is linked with a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

Having a family history of breast cancer – A history of breast cancer that runs in the family increases the risk in first-degree relatives by double.

Dense breast tissue – Breast are made up of fatty tissue, fibrous tissue, and glandular tissue. If the mammograms show less fatty tissues in your breast, it means your breasts are dense. This doubles the risk of developing it.

Radiation exposure – Frequent exposure of the chest to radiations at any time of your life increases the risk of developing breast cancer in later years of life.

Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be taken as professional medical advice.  Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other health professionals for any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.