Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women around the world today. This is a condition in which cells in the breasts divide uncontrollably and multiply to form lumps. Its initial symptoms are usually small painless lumps in the breasts or armpits, changes in the size and skin of the breasts, and abnormal bleeding or fluid from the nipples. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind breast cancer:
Hormonal changes and estrogen exposure: The female hormone estrogen is most associated with breast cancer. High levels of estrogen in a woman’s body for a long time can overstimulate breast cells and lead to cancer. Starting menstruation at a very young age (before the age of 12) and having menopause late (after the age of 55) are factors that increase the presence of estrogen in the body.
Heredity and Genetics (BRCA Genes): About 5 to 10 percent of breast cancers are hereditary. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that prevent the uncontrolled growth of cells. If a mother, sister, or grandmother has had breast cancer, the mutations in these genes can be passed on to the next generation. This greatly increases the risk of cancer.
Late childbirth and not breastfeeding: Studies have shown that getting married and having children too late (after the age of 30) increases the risk of breast cancer. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the production of the hormone estrogen in a woman’s body temporarily decreases and the cells get a rest. However, not giving birth and not breastfeeding properly can reduce this protection.
Obesity and postmenopausal fat: After menopause, women’s ovaries stop producing estrogen, but fat tissues in the body continue to produce estrogen. Therefore, obese and sedentary women are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer due to this hormonal change.
Bad lifestyle and hormone pills: Eating packaged foods, processed meats, and excessive sweets increases the amount of free radicals in the body and damages cells. Along with this, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can increase the risk of cancer. Also, taking birth control pills for a long time without proper supervision of a doctor and taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause can cause this.
