BREAST CANCER

Sue Kangas, PABy Sue Kangas, PA

 

Many of you know October is breast cancer awareness month.

Women have a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer in their lifetime.

In 2024 the American Cancer Society estimates that 310,720 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed this year, and sadly, 42,250 people will die from breast cancer in 2024.

The causes of breast cancer include inherited gene mutations, women over age 50, hormone therapy, radiation exposure to the chest and gamma radiation that is used to treat some types of cancers, environmental factors and lifestyle factors.

I wanted to talk more in depth about the causes. I feel that most people are aware that the BRCA 1 and 2 genes are the most common cause of hereditary breast cancer because this information seems to be talked about the most. I feel that the environmental and lifestyle factors do not get the same amount of attention that the genetic factors get. Only 5-10% of breast cancer cases are genetically related. This means that more cases of breast cancers are related to these other factors.

Concerning environmental factors- Researchers have linked air pollution, chemicals in water supplies and grilling meats on the barbecue to an increased risk. Yes grilling meats at high temperatures produce a chemical called heterocyclic amines in the blackened parts of meat that can increase risk.

Concerning lifestyle factors:

Obesity- obesity increases breast cancer risk particularly after menopause because fatty tissue becomes the primary source of estrogen production once the ovaries stop producing estrogen. Overweight and obese women also tend to have higher insulin levels which puts them at risk. People who loss more then 5% of their body weight can lower their risk of getting cancer.

Alcohol consumption- The WHO (World Health Organization) classifies alcohol as a Group 1 human carcinogen and is linked to 7 types of cancer. Not only female breast cancer, but oral cavity (mouth) throat, larynx, esophagus, liver, and colon cancer. The WHO states that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.

Sedentary Lifestyle- living a sedentary lifestyle increases breast cancer risk because it disrupts the body’s balance and creates conditions that favor cancer cell growth. Getting physical activity lowers estrogen levels that are linked to breast cancer. Physical activity also reduces inflammation, insulin levels and boosts the immune system. The American Cancer Society recommends getting 150-300 minutes of moderate intensity activity weekly. Some examples of moderate activities include walking, mowing the lawn, slow dancing. A good measurement to know if you’re doing moderate activity would be that you can carry on a conversation with someone, but you aren’t able to sing a song.

If you’re a woman ages 40 to 75 and you have not had your first mammogram or your due for your routine screening, take the time out of your life to see your primary care provider and discuss getting your breast cancer screening mammogram.