What are different causes of breast cancer besides heredity?

Answer 1

Causes & Symptoms of Breast Cancer-

Changes in the breast that may indicate breast cancer include:

- lump or thickening in breast or armpit
- changes in a nipple (thickening, pulling in, bleeding, or
discharge)
- dimpled or reddened skin over the breast
- change in size or shape
- abnormality on a mammogram-

There are a number of risk factors for the development of breast cancer, including:

- family history of breast cancer in mother or sister
- early onset of menstruation and late menopause
- reproductive history (women who had no children or have children late in life and women who have never breastfed have increased risk)
- history of abnormal breast biopsies

However, more than 70% of women who get breast cancer have no known risk factors. While a breast cancer gene was discovered in 1994, only about 5% of breast cancers are believed to be related to the gene.

In addition, some studies suggest that high fat diets, bottle feeding instead of breastfeeding, or consuming alcohol may contribute to the risk profile. Other aspects of nutrition and lifestyle in Western countries may be responsible for higher rates of breast cancer in our societies. For example, aromatic hydrocarbons in tobacco and certain hydrocarbons in well-done meat may act as carcinogens. While some studies had suggested a link between hormone replacement therapies (HRTs) contributing to breast cancer, many did not take them seriously. However, a landmark study released in 2003 proved the risk was greater than thought. The Women's Health Initiative found that even relatively short-term use of estrogen plus progestin is associated with increased risk of breast cancer, diagnosis at a more advanced stage of the disease, and a higher number of abnormal mammograms. The longer a woman used HRT, the more her risk increased.

It is important to realize that not all lumps detected in the breast are cancerous. Many are benign and require only the removal of the lump. While having several risk factors may boost a woman's chances of having breast cancer, the interplay of factors is complex. The best way to assess breast cancer risk is by doing monthly self examinations to detect any lump at an early stage. The second is to have a regular mammogram, an x ray of the front and side of the breast that will detect cysts or tumors at the earliest possible stage. Seeking risk assessment consultation at one of the many breast cancer centers located throughout the United States is also helpful.-

Answer 2

These can be definite risks that cause breast cancer:
# Getting older
# Previous breast cancer
# Family history
# Carrying a breast cancer gene
# Starting periods early and late menopause
# Having no children or having them late in life
# Benign breast disease
# Having dense breast tissue
# Hormone replacement therapy
# Your alcohol intake
# Your weight and height
# Breast cell changes called LCIS
# Radiation
# Treatment for Hodgkin's lymphoma
These factors could possibly increase your risk for breast cancer:
* The pill
* Diet, including fat intake
* Having uneven breasts
* Injury to the breast

Answer 3

I see people have listed the things that raise ones risk of getting breast cancer. As you can see, some of them we do not have any control over. Others we do.

I hope you are not worried about breast cancer. If you are, will your insurance cover a mammogram. That is the best thing they have for early detection. Many insurance companies will not cover a "routine" mammogram but will cover one if the doctor thinks there may be a risk. If you feel you are at risk, discuss it with your doctor and get one done.

Good luck to you.

Answer 4

im going through treatments for it at the moment, and oh my god i wish i knew why and how i got it! It would be awesome to know? They are still trying to work it out at the brisbane ABC radio station, with i think 9 diagnosed in so many years. They reckon, if its in your family, more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day, smoking, starting periods early or late, not having kids when young or older, too much sunburn or radiation,...... the list can go on, they don't know exactly why yet!!!! It's life though, and everything happens for a reason!!

Answer 5

There are a whole range of things which can increase your risk of getting breast cancer.

The biggest risk factor is AGE!!!

75% of women with breast cancer are ofer 50 years of age.