Breast Cancer: Risk and Protective Factors
Written by Morgan VanBibber, an undergraduate student at UNCW and a Public Health Intern at Going Beyond the Pink.
*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links.
Understanding the risk and protective factors for breast cancer is essential for early detection and prevention. In this blog, we'll go over the various risk and protective factors for breast cancer, including those you can change and those you cannot. We'll also discuss preventive measures and resources for further education.
Risk Factors for Breast Cancer:
Age: Your risk for breast cancer increases as you grow older.
Genetics: Inheriting certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, increases your risk.
Reproductive history: Women who start their menstrual periods before 12 or go through menopause after 55 are at higher risk due to longer exposure to hormones.
Dense breasts: Breasts with more connective tissue than fatty tissue make it harder to detect tumors on mammogram screenings.
Family history of breast or ovarian cancer: If you have a mother, sister, or daughter with a history of either cancer, your risk is higher.
Risk Factors You Can Change:
Physical inactivity: Inactivity and being overweight increase your risk.
Hormonal use: Taking hormones or being on birth control for over 5 years raises your risk.
Late pregnancy: Pregnancy after 30 increases your risk.
Alcohol consumption: Drinking more alcohol raises your risk.
Protective Factors for Breast Cancer:
Avoid smoking
Limit alcohol consumption to one drink or less per day
Get regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
Maintain a healthy diet and weight
Avoid harsh chemicals known to cause cancer
Breastfeed: The longer you breastfeed, the greater the protective effect.
Perform breast self-examinations: Regularly check for changes and follow up with a doctor if necessary.
If you have a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors, talk to your doctor about hormone-blocking drugs that can lower your risk, such as Tamoxifen, Raloxifene, and Aromatase inhibitors.
For further reading, check out these books:
Keep an eye out for our upcoming events. We’ll be hosting self breast assessment workshops to empower you in being your best self advocate! Stay informed and proactive in your breast health journey by understanding your risk and taking steps to prevent breast cancer.