Causes and Risk Factors of Breast Cancer in Women
The causes and risk factors of breast cancer in women are influenced by a combination of genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle elements. Understanding the risks and causes in women helps promote early screening and risk reduction.
Check out the 6 Causes and Risk Factors of Breast Cancer in Women below:
1. Age and gender
Being female and over the age of 40 significantly increases the risk. While breast cancer can occur at any age, risk rises with age.
2. Family history and genetics
Women with close relatives (mother, sister, or daughter) who had breast or ovarian cancer are at higher risk. Inherited mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes dramatically raise lifetime risk and may justify early and frequent screening.
3. Hormonal factors
- Starting menstruation early or reaching menopause late
- Having no children or having a first child after age 30
- Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
These factors increase lifetime exposure to oestrogen and may elevate risk.
4. Lifestyle and environmental factors
- Obesity, especially after menopause
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Smoking
- Lack of physical activity
- Poor diet
5. Previous cancer or radiation
Women who’ve had cancer in one breast or who received chest radiation for other conditions are more likely to develop breast cancer again.
6. Dense breast tissue
Denser breasts, which are common in younger women, can mask tumours on mammograms and are linked to higher cancer risk.
In South Africa, many of the risk factors of breast cancer in women are compounded by limited access to early detection tools, particularly in rural and low-income areas. Cultural beliefs and fear of diagnosis also play a role in delayed care.
Knowing the causes and risk factors of breast cancer in women empowers individuals to make informed lifestyle changes and seek timely medical help when needed.
👉 [Next: Diagnosis and Evaluation of Breast Cancer in Women]
