The main risk factors for breast cancer are related to age, endocrine and genetic aspects.
The endocrine are related mainly to the estrogenic stimulus, whether endogenous or exogenous, with increased risk proportional to the time of exposure. They are at increased risk:
- women with a history of early menarche (age of first menstruation less than 12 years);
- late menopause (after 50 years);
- first pregnancy after 30 years;
- nulliparity (women who never got pregnant)
- postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy, especially if prolonged for more than five years.
Other factors include:
- exposure to ionizing radiation under the age of 40;
- regular intake of alcoholic beverage, even if moderate amount (30g / day);
- obesity, especially when weight gain occurs after menopause;
- sedentary lifestyle.
The practice of physical activity and exclusive breastfeeding are considered as protective factors.
THE family history, especially in first-degree relatives under 50, is an important risk factor for breast cancer and may indicate a genetic predisposition associated with the presence of mutations in certain genes. However, hereditary breast cancer (genetic predisposition) corresponds to about 5-10% of the total cases.
Consult a gynecologist to assess the risk of breast cancer and make the screening for early diagnosis.
