Risk Factors For Breast Cancer

A number of studies have identified risk factors that increase the risks for breast cancer.
The studies involved risk factors such as:

• Smoking
• Previous smoker
• Exposure to second hand smoke
• Body mass index
• Physical activity
• Waist and hip circumference

These risk factors are also used to teach people how to  prevent cancers and other non-communicable diseases. CLICK HERE.

One study compared women who never smoked with those who smoked for some time. The highest risks were among:

• Current smokers
• Women who smoked during their teens
• Women who smoked before their first full term pregnancy

The researchers found that those who smoked  for some time and quit had a 9% increased risk for invasive breast cancer, while those who were current smokers had a 16% increased risk.

Among those who quit, the increased risk continued for up to 20 years after.  Compared to those who were not exposed to second hand smoke, those who had extensive exposure had a 32% increased risk.

Another study looked at body mass index and physical activity. The researchers found that in postmenopausal women as the body size increases and physical activity decreases, the risk for breast cancer increases. The participants were 155, 000 women.

Women who have a family history of breast cancer or a history of benign breast tumors must protect their health by avoiding these risk factors.  All women can prevent non-communicable diseases by pursuing a healthy lifestyle.