BREAST CANCER RISK FACTORS

When we talk about BREAST CANCER, one of the things we ask is: "What causes BREAST CANCER?" .

The cause of BREAST CANCER remains unknown...

BUT, we are aware that Early detection and early treatment save lives!

So instead of CAUSE, we talk about RISK FACTORS...
*    Risk factors we cannot control   AND
**  Risk factors we can control!

Most women with Breast Cancer have no known risk factors except that they are women!

Here are the RISK FACTORS which I gathered from the I CAN SERVE FOUNDATION website and which I would like to share with you.

RISK FACTORS

Risk Factors You Can’t Control

Being a Woman. Although men may also develop breast cancer, male breast cancer is extremely uncommon, occurring at a rate of 1% of its female counterpart.

Aging. The primary risk factor for breast cancer in most women is older age. Overall, 85% of cases occur in women 50 years of age and older.

Family History. Occurrence of breast cancer within the family increases your risk, especially if first degree relatives had it, like a mother, a daughter or a sister.

Personal History. Having had breast cancer before, even if successfully treated, poses the risk of a recurrence of the disease.

Estrogen Levels. High estrogen levels marked by starting menstruation before age 12, having menopause after 55, or exposure to estrogen in the environment increases risks.

Risk Factors You Can Control

Weight. Being overweight increases your risk, especially after menopause. Having more fat tissue means having higher estrogen levels, which can increase risk.

Diet. Experts recommend observing a balanced diet that is particularly low in fat and rich in fruits and vegetables.

Exercise. Regular physical activity – around 45-60 minutes, five or more days a week – is recommended.

Alcohol Consumption. Alcohol can limit your liver’s ability to control blood levels of the hormone estrogen, which can increase risk.

Smoking. Smoking is associated with increasing the risk of developing breast cancer by around one-third. Smoking also increases the risk of other diseases.

If you are in Zamboanga City, learn more about BREAST WELLNESS and BREAST CANCER AWARENESS by calling CMZ Breast Wellness Center and schedule a FREE LECTURE for your group or institution.

Let us all learn more about BREAST WELLNESS and BREAST CANCER AWARENESS!!!