Breast cancer is common in women due to several biological, hormonal, genetic, and lifestyle factors. Here are key reasons:
- Hormonal Influence: Estrogen and progesterone, the primary female hormones, stimulate breast cell growth. Prolonged exposure to high levels of these hormones, such as during a woman’s reproductive years, can increase the risk of abnormal cell growth, leading to breast cancer.
- Genetic Predisposition: Women with certain inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, have a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer. Family history also plays a crucial role in increasing this risk.
- Breast Tissue: Women's breasts are made up of more glandular and ductal tissues, which are susceptible to cancer development. The denser the breast tissue, the higher the risk, making women more vulnerable.
- Age: Breast cancer risk increases with age, and women generally live longer than men, leading to a greater cumulative risk. The majority of breast cancer cases occur in women over 50.
- Reproductive Factors: Early menstruation (before age 12), late menopause (after age 55), and not having children or having them later in life are associated with a longer lifetime exposure to estrogen, raising the risk of breast cancer. To reduce the risk of breast cancer try raloxifene from dosepharmacy.
- Lifestyle Factors: Factors like obesity, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and a high-fat diet can increase breast cancer risk. Postmenopausal weight gain and excess body fat can lead to higher estrogen levels, further elevating risk.
- Exposure to Radiation: Women who have undergone radiation therapy, especially to the chest area (for conditions like Hodgkin’s lymphoma), have a higher chance of developing breast cancer.
- Use of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Postmenopausal women who take combined hormone therapy (estrogen and progesterone) for several years may have an increased risk of breast cancer.