Breast cancer: 6 factors that increase the risk of the disease

There is no surefire way to prevent breast cancer. However, there are steps you can take to try and reduce the risk of the condition.

Breast cancer is the most common type of disease, with over 2.2 million cases worldwide each year, according to 2020 data from the World Health Organization (WHO).

It is estimated that around one in 12 women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, with the disease being the leading cause of death among them.

In 2020, approximately 685,000 women died from this disease worldwide.

Notably, nearly a quarter of new breast cancer cases in 2020 occurred in the Americas.

In Latin America and the Caribbean, the percentage of women affected by the disease before age 50 (32%) is much higher than in North America (19%), says the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

There are several risk factors for breast cancer that cannot be changed, such as aging, genetic mutations, and personal and family history, to name the most common.

But there are other factors that increase the risk of contracting the disease and that can be prevented or mitigated by making changes in daily life.

What are the factors that increase the risk of breast cancer? And what can be done to reduce them?

1. Physical inactivity

Women who are not physically active run a higher risk of contracting breast cancer, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Therefore, it is important to practice physical activity regularly.

The American Cancer Society recommends that adults get at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 to 150 minutes of more intense activity per week (or a combination of both), preferably over seven days.

High-intensity physical activity causes a high heart rate, sweating, and rapid breathing.

2. Excess weight

Older women who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of breast cancer than those with a healthy weight.

The American Cancer Society recommends maintaining a healthy weight throughout life and avoiding excessive weight gain by balancing food intake with physical activity.

3. Hormones

Certain forms of HRT (those that include estrogen and progesterone) taken during menopause can increase the risk of breast cancer if taken for more than 5 years, notes the CDC.

To avoid this, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about non-hormonal options for treating menopausal symptoms.

4. Reproductive history

Getting pregnant for the first time after age 30, not breastfeeding, and having a miscarriage can all increase your risk of breast cancer.

Women who choose to breastfeed their babies for at least several months can gain an added benefit by reducing their risk of breast cancer, the American Cancer Society points out.

5. Alcohol

Some studies show that a woman’s risk of breast cancer increases the more alcohol she drinks, the CDC says.

Low-level consumption has also been associated with an increased risk. It is best not to drink alcohol.

But those who do should not drink more than one alcoholic beverage per day, advises the American Cancer Society.

And how much is that daily dose? About 355ml of beer, 150ml of wine or 50ml of spirits or “strong drinks”.

6. Smoking

Smoking can cause cancer in almost any part of the body.

Avoiding smoking and being exposed to cigarette smoke helps reduce the risk of getting cancer.

Research suggests that other factors, such as exposure to carcinogenic chemicals and changes in other hormones due to night work, may also increase breast cancer risk, the CDC details.

recommendations

Breast cancer organizations recommend that you consult your doctor about screening for early detection of the disease.

Talking to a professional about when to start tests, such as clinical exams and mammograms, is crucial, the Mayo Clinic says on its website.

Also, you need to become familiar with your breasts during a breast self-exam.

If there is a new change, lump, or other unusual signs in the breast, see a doctor immediately.

And as always, you need to take care of the food.

Women who follow a Mediterranean diet with extra virgin olive oil and mixed nuts may have a reduced risk of breast cancer.

The Mediterranean diet focuses on plant-based foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts, details the Mayo Clinic.

– This text was published in https://www.bbc.com/portuguese/geral-63323701

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Benjamin

Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.