Dr. Mandar Nadkarni
Surgical Oncology, Head – Breast Oncology, Surgeon – Colorectal Oncology
Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer happens when cells in breast tissue start growing abnormally and form tumors. Most cases occur in women, but men can get it too. There are different types of breast cancer, and identifying which type a patient has is crucial for planning effective breast cancer treatment. Some tumors are slow-growing and stay in one place. Others are aggressive and spread to other organs quickly.
Breast Cancer Incidence in Women
Getting older increases your chances of developing breast cancer. However, in India, we see many women under 50 getting diagnosed. This doesn’t mean younger women are at higher risk – it’s about population numbers.
India has a large population of women between 35 and 55 years old, thanks to better medical facilities and longer lifespans. When you look at risk per 100,000 women, younger women actually have lower chances of getting breast cancer compared to women over 60. Better breast cancer awareness has helped women spot symptoms earlier, which means better results with breast cancer treatment.
Key Risk Factors of Breast Cancer
Several factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer:
Hormonal Factors: Women who get their first period early or go through menopause late spend more years exposed to estrogen and progesterone. This prolonged exposure increases risk.
Reproductive Factors: Research shows that having a first child before 25, a second before 30, and breastfeeding each baby for at least six months can reduce risk by half. However, later childbirth has shown to slightly increase risk. Women who don’t have children also face higher risk compared to those who do. Extended breastfeeding duration is associated with lower risk of developing breast cancer.
Body Weight: If your BMI is over 31, you face much higher risk than women who keep their BMI under 23. Maintaining a healthy weight is an important aspect of breast care.
Hormone Replacement Therapy: Taking hormone replacement therapy, particularly combination pills containing both estrogen and progesterone, for more than two years after menopause significantly increases risk. Women should discuss the appropriate duration and alternatives with their healthcare providers before starting HRT.
Urban Lifestyle: Women in cities have higher rates than those in rural areas. Urban lifestyles often involve less physical activity, sedentary work environments, and higher average body weight—all factors that increase risk. That’s why breast cancer awareness matters so much in urban areas.
How Genetics Influence Breast Cancer
Here’s something that surprises people: genetics cause less than 10% of breast cancer cases. Most women who get breast cancer don’t have any family history of it. Yes, gene mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 do increase risk a lot, but they’re not common. Most cases happen because of the lifestyle and reproductive factors we already talked about.
If you have several close relatives who got breast cancer young, talk to a genetic counselor. They can help you understand if you need different screening for various types of breast cancer.
Preventive Steps and Healthy Lifestyle Choices for Breast Cancer
Several modifiable risk factors can be addressed through lifestyle changes. Maintaining a BMI below 25 is recommended. Getting at least 150 minutes of exercise each week supports overall breast care. Limiting alcohol consumption is advisable, as even moderate drinking increases risk. Women who choose to breastfeed may experience reduced risk. Hormone replacement therapy should be used at the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary, and alternatives should be discussed with healthcare providers.
Get screened regularly. Mammograms catch breast cancer early, which makes breast cancer treatment more successful. Know what’s normal for your breasts. If you notice any lumps, skin changes, discharge from your nipple, or pain that doesn’t go away, see your doctor right away.
Conclusion
Multiple factors including age, hormones, lifestyle, and genetics contribute to breast cancer risk. While some factors like age and menstrual history cannot be modified, many lifestyle-related risks can be addressed. Maintaining healthy weight, exercising regularly, and following recommended screening guidelines all help reduce risk. More women now recognize symptoms early because breast cancer awareness has improved. Understanding what increases your risk helps you make informed decisions about breast care.
FAQs for Breast Cancer
Can men also get breast cancer?
Yes, though it’s rare, less than 1% of all cases. Men have breast tissue too and should watch for lumps, skin changes, or nipple discharge.
At what age should women start breast cancer screening?
Most doctors recommend starting annual mammograms at 40. Women with family history or other risk factors might need to start earlier. Talk to your doctor about your situation.
Why are breast cancer rates higher in urban areas?
Urban lifestyles typically involve less physical activity, sedentary work environments, and higher average body weight. Cities also have better healthcare access, so more cases get diagnosed compared to rural areas.
How can women reduce the risk of breast cancer?
Maintain a BMI below 25, exercise regularly, limit alcohol consumption, breastfeed if applicable, discuss HRT alternatives with healthcare providers, and follow recommended screening guidelines.
