The Original Poetry

           

             Hello, this is Dr. Divya Kasal Jain. Today, I will share some of the risk factors associated with breast cancer. The exact cause remains unclear, but some risk factors make us more susceptibility to breast cancers. Some of these are preventable, hence, the need for awareness. Let's have a look at some of the risk factors:

1. Age - The risk increases with age. The older you get, more is the risk, and more, the importance of awareness and screening.

2. Genetics - If a close relative has, or has had, breast cancer, the risk is higher.

3. History of breast cancer - Women who have had breast cancer before are more likely to have it again, compared with those who have no history of the disease.

4. Estrogen exposure and breast feeding - Being exposed to  estrogen for a longer period appears to increase the risk of breast cancer. Breast-feeding, especially for over 1 year, appears to reduce the chance of developing breast cancer, possibly because pregnancy followed by breastfeeding reduces exposure to estrogen.

5. Body weight - Women who are overweight or have obesity after menopause may have a higher risk of developing breast cancer, possibly due to higher levels of estrogen. High sugar intake may also be a factor.

6. Alcohol consumption - A higher rate of regular alcohol consumption appears to play a role. Studies have shown that women who consume more than 3 drinks a day have a 1.5 times higher risk.

7. Radiation exposure- It may play a role as well.

8. Hormone treatment - The use of Hormone replacement therapy, HRT, and use of oral contraceptives pills, have been linked to breast cancer due to increased levels of estrogen, so these should be taken under proper supervision of your doctor.

9. Occupational Hazards - Certain carcinogens have been linked to breast cancer.

These are some of the risk factors for breast cancer you should be aware about. Stay healthy, stay aware, stay PINK!

          - Dr. Divya Kasal Jain (Gynaecologist)