October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a time to raise awareness, share knowledge, and remind ourselves of the importance of early detection and prevention. One of the most common questions people ask is: “What can I do to lower my risk of breast cancer?”
The truth is that while doctors don’t know exactly what causes breast cancer, research has identified certain factors that increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Some of these are beyond our control, while others are linked to lifestyle choices and can be modified. By learning the difference, we empower ourselves to take the best possible care of our health.
Unchangeable Risk Factors
Some risk factors cannot be avoided. These include:
- Sex: Being female or assigned female at birth is the biggest risk factor.
- Age: Risk increases with age; two out of three invasive breast cancers occur in women 55 or older.
- Family History and Genetics: A family history of breast cancer or inherited genetic mutations (such as BRCA1/2) increases risk.
- Personal History: Women previously diagnosed with breast cancer are more likely to develop it again.
- Past Radiation: Radiation to the chest or face before age 30 raises risk.
- Certain Breast Conditions: Some non-cancerous breast changes are linked to higher risk.
Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors
Our daily habits and choices also play a significant role:
- Weight: Being overweight, especially after menopause, increases risk.
- Physical Activity: Lack of regular exercise is linked to higher risk.
- Smoking and Alcohol: Both are associated with increased breast cancer risk.
- Hormonal Factors: Use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or hormonal contraception may raise risk in some women.
- Reproductive History: Age at first childbirth, number of pregnancies, and breastfeeding history all influence risk.
- Menstrual History: Early onset of menstruation is associated with slightly higher risk.
Emerging Risk Factors
Research is ongoing, but some additional factors are being studied, such as:
- Low vitamin D levels.
- Night-shift work and exposure to bright light at night.
- Exposure to chemicals (in food, plastics, cosmetics, sunscreens, pesticides, pollution).
- Frequent consumption of grilled or smoked meats.
- High levels of air pollution.
Myths and Misconceptions
It’s equally important to clear up what does not increase risk. Research shows no evidence that abortion, antiperspirants, bras, or dairy products cause breast cancer.
We may not be able to control every risk factor, but every small step toward a healthier lifestyle truly makes a difference. Exercise, balanced nutrition, limiting alcohol, and avoiding smoking are not just prevention measures — they’re acts of daily self-care.
At Kapa3, we believe that awareness and support save lives. No one is ever alone on this journey. We promise to continue to speak openly, share knowledge, and stand beside every woman. Because awareness is not about fear; it’s about strength, hope, and small steps toward a healthier tomorrow.
Read More here: https://www.breastcancer.org/risk/risk-factors
Text/Adaptation: Ifiyenia for Kapa3