Environmental and Lifestyle Breast Cancer Risk Factors
While research has not been exhausted, most of the environmental and lifestyle risk factors relating to developing breast cancer have been identified. Almost of all of the risks are able to be controlled by men and women through healthy lifestyle choices. And yes, men develop breast cancer, too, though at a highly decreased rate of about 1/133 compared to women.
Women aged 30 and above who haven’t beared children have a slightly increased risk. The increased risk is likely the result of two things: the amount of menstrual periods experienced and the link between the level of estrogen in the body. Hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, contribute to cell growth in the body and cancer is caused when cells begin to grow in abnormal shapes and numbers.
The risk of breast cancer is lowered by multiple pregnancies before age 30. This however should not be the reason to make pregnancy a priority, as pregnancy also carries its own set of risks. This reason alone should not be grounds for deciding to embark on a pregnancy. For those who have had, or plan to have children though, it's an added benefit.
The link between oral contraceptives and the risk of cancer is still unknown. Studies at this stage show that women who have discontinued this method of birth control for more than ten years show no signs of increased risk. However, as the majority of breast cancer cases don’t present until the age of 50, or later, the risk of oral contraceptives and cancer is still largely unknown.
Another area that is still being researched is diet, though this area appears to have a more direct effect. It has been determined that a healthy diet does play a large role. The risk of breast cancer is almost certainly affected by obesity, as fat cells store estrogen. A small level is also produced by the fat cells, but most is created by the ovaries.
The exact effect of diet isn’t known at this stage. Previously it was believed that a diet high in fibre would prevent cancer. While research doesn’t support that theory, a high fibre diet is healthy choice for your overall health. It is certainly of benefit to be in prime health if breast cancer does develop, as good health will help during the treatment process. Having a good diet is an excellent way to make sure that you are in the best health possible.
Also important is exercise. Moderate exercise undertaken for an hour a day is a great way to keep muscles toned and the body running at its prime. Though results are inconclusive currently, one study linked a 1 – 2 hour brisk walk every week with a risk decrease of 18%.
According to the American Cancer society, there are several factors that many would assume increase the risk of breast cancer, but according to studies conducted, are not actually a factor. Smoking is one of the most surprising, with no link found. When talking about lung cancer, of course, it is a different story. It has also been found that environmental pollutants in general do not increase the risk of breast cancer.
Alcohol in moderation is not a factor, but heavy alcohol use has been found to increase breast cancer risk. It is believed that for every daily drink of hard alcohol, there is a 10% increase in risk. Added to this is the fact that the liver is also damaged by drinking, making heavy drinking a poor lifestyle choice.
The key to minimizing your risk of breast cancer is to maintain a good attitude and follow a good health program.
Introduction to Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Self Exam - Diagnosing Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Prevention – How to Prevent Breast Cancer
Genetic Breast Cancer Risk Factors
Breast Cancer Stages – Breast Cancer Survival Rates
Breast Cancer Diagnosis - Breast Cancer Test
Breast Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy Breast Cancer Medication
Breast Cancer Mammogram Diagnosis
Breast Cancer Diet Tests and Research
Breast Cancer Statistics, Diagnosis and Treatments
Breast Cancer Radiation Treatment
Breast Cancer Surgery Treatment
Breast Cancer Reconstruction Surgery Treatments
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