Five Things That Do Not Increase The Risk Of Breast Cancer

Most women want to know what their chances are of developing breast cancer and whether there is anything they are doing that increases their risk. Statistics about breast cancer risks can be confusing. Many misconceptions, rumors, and unproven theories about breast cancer risk factors have made the rounds in the public and add to this confusion

According to the Mayo Clinic Guide to Women’s Cancers the following factors have not been demonstrated to have any significance on breast cancer risks:

—Antiperspirants. Several thorough studies have not found antiperspirant use to increase the risk of breast cancer.

—Underwire bra  There is no scientific basis for such a claim.

—Coffee. Studies have shown no increase in breast cancer risk associated with drinking coffee or tea.

—Large breasts. Large breasted women have the same risk of developing breast cancer as small-breasted women do.

—Breast implants. Several studies have concluded that breast implants do not increase breast cancer risk.

Simply being a woman is the main risk factor for developing breast cancer. Breast cancer is 100 times more common in women than men. Age is also a major risk factor. Three-fourths of women with breast cancer were older than age 55 when they received the diagnosis. After gender and age, a family history of breast cancer is the strongest known risk factor. About 15 percent to 20 percent of breast cancers occur in women with some family history of the disease. Mayo Clinic Guide to Women’s Cancers also points out there is cause for optimism with regard to breast cancer. In the last 35 years, scientists have learned much more about how and why breast cancer develops and have made tremendous strides in diagnosis and treatment.

Research has led to better treatments, lower chance of death, and improved quality of life for women living with breast cancer.

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