Breast cancer is one of the most commonly reported cancers among women around the world today. This is a condition in which cells in the breasts grow abnormally and form a tumor. Since it is usually painless in the early stages, many people delay in recognizing it. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind breast cancer:
Genetics & BRCA Gene Mutation: Genetic factors play a major role in the development of breast cancer. There are some genes that prevent the excessive growth of cells in the body. Among these, genetic changes (mutations) in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase the risk of breast cancer by 60 to 80 percent. If your mother or sister has had breast cancer, the next generation is more likely to develop this disease.
Prolonged Estrogen Exposure: Estrogen, the main hormone in women, stimulates breast cells. Menstruation at a very young age (before the age of 12) and menopause at a late age (after the age of 55) leave the body exposed to estrogen for a longer period of time. This may contribute to the growth of cancer cells.
Late pregnancy and not breastfeeding: Studies show that women who have their first child after the age of 30 and those who have never had children are at higher risk of breast cancer. In addition, not breastfeeding their babies properly is another reason. During breastfeeding, breast cells reach their full size and estrogen levels decrease. This helps the body fight breast cancer.
Hormone Replacement Therapy & Pills (HRT & Oral Contraceptive Pills): Combined Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) i.e. hormone therapy containing estrogen and progesterone for more than 5 years continuously increases the risk of breast cancer in women. Also, long-term use of contraceptive pills without the doctor’s specific instructions can also cause hormonal changes.
Poor lifestyle and obesity (Obesity & Lifestyle): Obesity in women after menopause increases the risk of breast cancer. This is because at this age, the fat tissues in the body produce the hormone estrogen. When fat increases, estrogen also increases. In addition, lack of physical activity, a Western diet containing excessive fat, smoking, and alcohol consumption are also factors that increase the risk of cancer.
