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Breast Cancer: Know Your Risk And How To Avoid Them

Breast Cancer: Are You At Risk? | DoctorOnCall

Get to Know Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells in breast tissue. While breast cancer is most common among women worldwide, it's not exclusive to women as this cancer can also affect men.

Breast cancer can begin in the lobules or ducts of the breast. Lobules are the milk-producing glands, while ducts are the channels that carry milk to the nipple. Breast cancer can also spread to other breast tissue or other parts of the body.


Risk Factors 

Breast cancer is a serious health problem in Malaysia. According to a Malaysian Ministry of Health report, breast cancer is the most common cancer among Malaysian women. However, the exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown. So, let's take a look at some of the factors that have been linked to breast cancer.


      1.  Gender

Gender is one of the leading causes of breast cancer. Women are more likely to be affected than men. Most breast cancer patients are over the age of 50. However, this illness can also affect younger women.


      2.  Age

A woman's risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. This means that women over the age of 50 are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.


      3.  Alcohol

High alcohol consumption has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in studies. As a result, we should limit our alcohol consumption to lower our risk of getting breast cancer.


      4.  Smoking


Smoking is not a direct cause of breast cancer. However, smoking can increase the risk of breast cancer in menopausal women.


      5.  Diet

A well-balanced and nutritious diet is essential for our health. According to research, women who eat a lot of animal fat, red meat, and sugar are more likely to get breast cancer.


      6.  Radiation

Radiation exposure to the breast can increase the risk of developing breast cancer. Women who have had chest radiotherapy, for example, are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.


      7.  Obesity

Obesity is a significant risk factor for the development of breast cancer. Adipose tissue, or fat cells, produce oestrogen which can stimulate the growth of abnormal breast cells. As a result, obese women are more likely to develop breast cancer.


      8.  Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Women who become pregnant later in life or who have never been pregnant are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Breastfeeding for a year or more can also lower your risk of developing breast cancer.


      9.  Breast tissue density

Breast cancer is more likely in women who have dense breast tissue. In the early stages of cancer, a larger number of cells in breast tissue may make detection more difficult.


       10.  Genetics


Breast cancer is more common in women who have a family history of the disease. The risk can also be increased by genetic factors such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.


      11.  Hormone therapy

Women who use hormone therapy after menopause have a higher risk of developing breast cancer. Hormone therapy provides oestrogen and progesterone, which can stimulate the growth of abnormal breast cells.


      12.  Personal history of cancer

Women who have had breast cancer in the past have a higher risk of developing breast cancer again. Regular check-ups are mandatory to detect the recurrence of new cancer cells.


Breast Cancer Signs

Recognising the signs and symptoms of breast cancer is an important step in early detection and treatment. A lump or mass in the breast is the most common symptom.

Other symptoms may include changes in the size or shape of the breast, dimpling or puckering of the skin, redness or thickening of the nipple, nipple discharge (other than breast milk), and swelling in the armpit.

It's vital to keep in mind that not all lumps are cancerous. They can also be caused by other growths such as cysts or fibroadenomas. If you notice any abnormal changes in your breast, please see a doctor right away for further examination.


Prevention Is Better Than Cure


There are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of breast cancer. To begin, it is critical to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious foods.


Cancer-Fighting Diet

Eat Healthy

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  • Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet. These provide antioxidants and essential nutrients for overall health.

  • Additionally, foods like leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds and berries are rich in nutrients that can reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Avoid Sugar and Processed Foods

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  • Excessive sugar consumption is linked to an increased risk of cancer, especially breast cancer.

  • Limit intake of sugary drinks and processed foods containing added sugar and salt. 

Eat More Fish

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  • Studies show that women who eat two or more servings of fish per week have a lower risk of developing breast cancer.

  • Eat fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, which are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation and lower your risk.

Reduce Red Meat

  • Red meat, including beef and pork, is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. 

  • Choose lean protein sources like poultry and beans to help reduce your risk.

Fermented Foods

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  • Foods like yoghurt, kimchi, miso soup, tempeh and pickles contain probiotics that are linked to lower rates of certain cancers. 

  • Consume these in moderation to reap the benefits.


Additionally, regular exercise, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are all important. Breast self-examination should be done on a regular basis to ensure no abnormal changes occur. 

Discuss with your doctor about any family history of breast cancer or other factors that may increase your risk.

You may also consult your doctor about preventative measures such as hormone therapy or medications that can help lower your risk. All of these steps can help lower your risk of developing breast cancer and provide you with peace of mind.


Reduce Your Risk Today!

Breast cancer death rates have been decreasing steadily, but it is important to recognise your risk and take appropriate preventative measures. You can lower your risk of breast cancer and keep your breasts healthy by practising good self-care!

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Written By Dr Shobika Nair, Doctor of Medicine, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Russia on

Reviewed By DoctorOnCall Panel Doctor