Breast cancer is a type of cancer that usually affects women, but it can also affect men in rare cases.

It is one of the most common types of cancer in women, and it is estimated that about one in eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. Unfortunately, breast cancer is not always easy to detect, and in many cases, it is asymptomatic in its early stages.

There are many factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing breast cancer, and some of these factors are often ignored or overlooked.

Age

Age is one of the most important risk factors for breast cancer. The older a person is, the higher their risk of developing breast cancer.

According to the American Cancer Society, about two-thirds of invasive breast cancers are found in women 55 or older. However, breast cancer can occur at any age, and women in their 20s and 30s should also be aware of the risks and take steps to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer.

Family History

A person’s risk of developing breast cancer is higher if they have a close relative, such as a mother or sister, who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

In fact, women who have a first-degree relative with breast cancer have about two to three times the risk of women without this family history. If a woman has multiple relatives who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, her risk may be even higher.

BRCA Gene Mutations

Some people inherit mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, which can increase their risk of developing breast cancer. Women who inherit these mutations have up to an 80% risk of developing breast cancer during their lifetime.

Men who inherit these mutations also have an increased risk of developing breast cancer, although the risk is much lower than for women.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy, which is often used to treat menopausal symptoms, can increase a person’s risk of developing breast cancer.

Hormone therapy involves taking estrogen and/or progesterone, and studies have found that women who take hormone therapy for five or more years have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. However, the benefits of hormone therapy may outweigh the risks for some women, so it is important to discuss the pros and cons of hormone therapy with a healthcare provider.

Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol can also increase a person’s risk of developing breast cancer.

Studies have found that women who have two to three alcoholic drinks per day have a 20% higher risk of developing breast cancer than women who don’t drink alcohol. The risk increases with higher levels of alcohol consumption.

Obesity

Obesity is a risk factor for many types of cancer, including breast cancer. Studies have found that women who are obese have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, especially after menopause.

The exact reasons for this are not known, but it may be related to hormones and other substances produced by fat cells.

Lack of Physical Activity

People who are physically inactive are also at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Regular physical activity has many health benefits, and it can help reduce the risk of many types of cancer, including breast cancer.

Experts recommend getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

Not Having Children or Having Them Later in Life

Women who have never had children or who have their first child after age 30 have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than women who have children at a younger age.

This may be related to the fact that pregnancy and breastfeeding can lower a woman’s exposure to, and the effects of, estrogen over time.

Exposure to Radiation

Exposure to high levels of radiation, especially during childhood or adolescence, can increase a person’s risk of developing breast cancer later in life.

This includes exposure to radiation from medical treatments, such as radiation therapy for other types of cancer. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of any medical treatments that involve radiation with a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the many risk factors for breast cancer that are often ignored or overlooked.

By understanding these risk factors and taking steps to reduce them, people can help lower their risk of developing breast cancer and increase their chances of catching it early if it does occur. Regular screening, such as mammograms, can also help detect breast cancer in its early stages when it is more treatable.

It is important to talk to a healthcare provider about any concerns or questions about breast cancer and to discuss the best screening and prevention strategies based on individual risk factors.