What are the Causes of Breast Cancer in Female

What causes breast cancer? Breast cancer is a concern for many women, but the precise causes remain complex. Understanding the risk factors and underlying mechanisms can help shed light on this critical health issue.

Breast cancer is a disease where cells in the breast grow out of control, leading to the formation of a tumour. It is the most common cancer among women worldwide. Although the exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, several risk factors have been identified that increase a woman’s chance of developing the disease.

Genetic Factors

One of the significant causes of breast cancer is genetic makeup. Women who inherit mutations in specific genes are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. The most well-known of these are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. These mutations can significantly increase the risk and are often identified through genetic testing.

Furthermore, women with a family history of breast cancer are also at increased risk. If a mother, sister, or daughter has been diagnosed with breast cancer, the risk doubles. It is important for women with a family history to discuss their risk with healthcare providers.

Genetic factors to consider include:

• BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations
• Family history of breast cancer
• Other hereditary conditions

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

Aside from genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors also contribute to breast cancer risk. Certain behaviours and exposures have been linked to an increased likelihood of developing the disease.

Dietary habits, physical activity, and alcohol consumption play a role. A diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk, while regular physical activity has been shown to reduce it. Alcohol consumption is another factor, with studies indicating that women who consume alcohol are at a greater risk than those who do not.

Key lifestyle factors include:

• Poor diet
• Lack of physical activity
• Alcohol consumption

Hormonal and Reproductive Factors

Hormonal and reproductive history can also influence breast cancer risk. Women who start menstruating early or go through menopause late have a slightly increased risk. This is due to prolonged exposure to oestrogen and progesterone, which can stimulate breast cell growth.

Additionally, women who have never been pregnant or have their first child after age 30 also face a higher risk. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) used during menopause has been found to increase the risk, particularly when used for more than five years.

Considerations include:

• Early menstruation or late menopause
• Pregnancy history
• Use of hormone replacement therapy

Sources:
1. Cancer Research UK
2. National Health Service (NHS)