What do you think? Do
ladies with large breasts have higher chances of getting breast cancer versus
us with smaller breasts?
I wished this was true
but, unfortunately, it is one big MYTH! Having smaller breasts do not lessen
our risks of getting breast cancer. Our chances are the same as the big busted lady next to us,
assuming all other factors remain the same.
So what are some risk
factors in getting this dreaded cancer?
1. Sex
Well, being a woman! Sounds
silly but did you know that men also develop breast cancer? Simply by being a
lady, we are a 100 times more likely to develop breast cancer vs our male
counterparts.
2. Age
Most breast cancers
happen to ladies over the age of 50 years old. However, the youngest, ever
recorded, patient with breast cancer was only 10 years old!
3. History
A family history of
breast cancer can put you at higher risk of getting breast cancer.
So can a previous
personal history of some cancer forms other than breast cancer including
melanoma, colorectal, ovarian, endometrial and thyroid cancer.
4. Alcohol
Believe or not,
consuming alcohol can increase the risk of getting breast cancer. By drinking,
I mean three
or more drinks per day compared with none at all.
5. Menstruation
I just learnt this! Did
you know that a younger age at menarche or commencement of menstruation younger
than 12 years vs 12 years or more can increase your risk of cancer!
While it is good to know
what can increase your risks of getting breast cancer, it is just as important to know
what can help reduce this risk:
1. Get moving
Physical activity can help keep your body healthy and
reduce your risk of breast cancer. Just 20 minutes a day or more of brisk
walking or swimming or any other activities that can get our bodies moving and
heart beating faster will help.
2. Breastfeeding
As mothers, you would already know about the benefits
breastfeeding to your baby. It’s great to know that this act of nature also
benefits the mother in helping to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Aim to
breastfeed for at least one year.
3. Have a baby
Giving birth to at least one child vs never having being
pregnant at all is also a moderate risk reducing factor. Even having a baby
before 29 years old can be a positive contributor to reducing your risk. So don’t
wait too long to have a baby!
I hope this has been
helpful. Send me your comments, if there is anything else you would like to
know more about.
Reference
Breast cancer risk factors July 2009
a review of the evidence. A study by the National Breast & Ovarian Cancer
Centre
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