Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women in the world. In 2018, there were 2.1 million new cases of breast cancer accounted for 11.6% of cancer cases in women.

Body fat percentage and its associated risk factors have been extensively studied to better understand the link between breast cancer and obesity.

Research shows that obesity increases the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease that occurs when normal cells in the breast start to grow uncontrollably. These abnormal cells will form lumps and can spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes or other organs.

The symptoms of breast cancer include a lump or thickening of the breast tissue, changes in the size or shape of the breast, changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling, and changes to the nipple, such as discharge.

What is Body Fat?

Body fat is the amount of adipose tissue in the body. Adipose tissue is a form of connective tissue, which stores energy and insulates the body. We all have some level of body fat, and it is essential for the body to function correctly.

However, having too much body fat can lead to obesity, which is associated with numerous chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

The Link Between Breast Cancer and Body Fat

There is strong evidence to suggest that there is a positive relationship between body fat and breast cancer.

A meta-analysis of 36 studies published in 2014 found a 12% increase in the risk of breast cancer for every five-point increase in body mass index (BMI) in postmenopausal women.

The increased risk may be due to the fact that adipose tissue produces estrogen, a hormone that is associated with breast cancer.

After menopause, women have less estrogen produced by their ovaries but continue to produce estrogen through adipose tissue. Therefore, obese postmenopausal women have higher levels of estrogen in their bodies than lean postmenopausal women, which increases their risk of developing breast cancer.

Obese women are also more likely to have high levels of insulin and inflammation in their bodies, both of which have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

Other Factors that Increase the Risk of Breast Cancer

While obesity is a significant risk factor for breast cancer, there are other factors that increase the risk of developing the disease, including:.

Age: The risk of breast cancer increases as women get older
Family history: Women with a family history of breast cancer have an increased risk
Breast density: Women with high breast density are at an increased risk
Hormone therapy: Taking hormone therapy for menopause can increase the risk
Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer
Exposure to ionizing radiation: Such as from radiation therapy or x-rays

Preventing Breast Cancer

While there is no sure way to prevent breast cancer, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk.

Maintaining a healthy body weight, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption are all actions women can take to lower their risk of developing breast cancer.

In addition, women should get regular mammograms starting at age 50, or earlier if they have a family history of breast cancer. Self-exams and clinical breast exams can also help detect early signs of breast cancer.

Conclusion

The link between breast cancer and body fat is clear: obesity increases the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly in postmenopausal women.

While there are other factors that increase the risk, maintaining a healthy weight and living a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing this disease.