Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in Kerala today. This is a condition in which the cells in the breasts grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts. Some hormonal changes in the body and modern lifestyle play a major role in the increase in this disease in women today, regardless of age. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind breast cancer:
Excessive influence of estrogen hormone (Prolonged Estrogen Exposure): The most important scientific reason for breast cancer is the excessive presence of the female hormone estrogen in the body. In those who have menstruation at a very young age (before the age of 12) or menopause late (after the age of 55), the body is under the influence of estrogen hormone for a long time. This causes mutations in the cells in the breasts and leads to cancer.
Genetics & BRCA Gene Mutation: If a mother, sister, or daughter in the family has a history of breast cancer, the next generation is more likely to develop the disease. Scientifically, this is due to genetic defects (mutations) in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which protect our body from cancer. Those who inherit these gene defects have a double chance of developing breast cancer at a very young age.
Late Pregnancy & Not Breastfeeding: Those who have their first child after the age of 30 or have never had children have a higher risk of breast cancer. Also, not breastfeeding their children properly after birth is a cause. During breastfeeding, the cells in the breasts develop fully and the menstrual cycle stops temporarily. This reduces the level of the estrogen hormone and greatly reduces the risk of cancer.
Obesity and hormone therapy (HRT): Obesity and a large belly in women after menopause increase the risk of breast cancer. Although the ovaries stop producing estrogen after menopause, fat tissues in the body continue to produce estrogen. In addition, long-term hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to relieve menopausal symptoms and taking birth control pills for many years without a doctor’s advice can increase the risk of the disease.
Bad lifestyle and alcohol: Excessive consumption of junk foods containing fat and artificial chemicals, lack of physical activity, and chronic severe mental stress can affect the body’s natural cell growth. In addition, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption damage the body’s DNA structure and contribute to the growth of cancer cells.