Why do scientists think lifestyle plays a role in cancer risk?        
Cancer rates vary in different countries.  In the case of breast cancer, the rate is
lowest in women in Asian countries.  When Asian women move to the United
States and adopt new habits, though, their risk for breast cancer increases.

But couldn't that increased risk come from environmental exposures?
It could, but little is known about the role of cancer-causing substances in
increasing breast cancer risk.  More is known about the link between lifestyle
and breast cancer.

Isn't there a gene passed in families that causes breast cancer?
The two known inherited breast cancer genes account for less than 10% of
breast cancer cases.  Most women who get breast cancer have no history of it in
their family.

What makes cancer develop?
Cancerous tumors begin to grow when cells somehow lose control over cell
division and begin to proliferate wildly.  No one knows what starts this process
or why some individuals are more susceptible to it than others, but they do know
that both heredity and environment play a role.  Certain genes predispose an
individual to getting cancer, but exposure to carcinogens (cancer-causing
substances) causes genetic damage that can initiate cancer and fuel its
progression.

So why don't even more people get cancer?
Our bodies have natural defense mechanisms which operate optimally when
we're in good health.  We have mechanisms to repair genes damaged by
carcinogens, and we have genes that suppress the development of cancer.  The  
immune system can detect developing cancer cells and destroy them.

Why would lifestyle make a difference?  
Our overall physical condition has an impact on how well defense systems
operate.  Additionally, certain foods have substances that can block damage to
genes or interfere with the development of tumors.

What are these substances and what do they do?
Vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals (chemicals found in plants) from the
foods we eat play a vital role in the normal chemical processes that take place in
our cells.  Many have antioxidant activity, protecting genes from damage, but
they also act in other ways to interfere with cancer development.  They block the
action of carcinogens, inhibit tumor growth, and keep our immune system
functioning well.  

What does exercise do to lower cancer risk?
Exercise boosts your immune system, reduces stress, and helps keep your
weight under control.

But why would stress make a difference?
Stress dampens your immune system.  It also leads to unhealthy habits, like
overeating and drinking too much.  When we're stressed, our bodies are primed
for what's called the "fight-or-flight" mechanism.  We look for ways to calm
ourselves, and the "flight" too often ends up being a trip to the kitchen for
chocolate chip cookies.

Why would a few cookies make cancer more likely?
Keeping weight at a healthy level reduces the risk of several cancers.  In the
case of breast cancer, being overweight is thought to increase risk and
recurrence by raising your estrogen level.

How does estrogen increase breast cancer risk?
Estrogen is a naturally occurring hormone that can act as a cancer promoter.  It
stimulates growth of some types of breast tumors -- those that have cell
receptors for estrogen.

Then why is estrogen used in medications to relieve menopausal symptoms?
Some women experience troublesome symptoms as they go through
menopause, though it should be noted that many do not.  Until a few years ago,
even women with no symptoms were encouraged to take hormones because
doctors believed the benefits of taking them outweighed the slight increased risk
of breast cancer.

So I shouldn't use hormone replacement therapy?
Some of the lifestyle changes that lower breast cancer risk may also reduce
menopausal  symptoms, but hormones may be needed if these symptoms are
particularly bothersome.  Take a low dose for the shortest possible time.  Or be
patient and the symptoms will subside with time.

Why do alcoholic beverages increase breast cancer risk?
Too much alcohol is thought to interfere with folate, a vitamin that has important
functions in the body.  Alcohol may also increase levels of estrogen.  To lower
breast cancer risk, have no more than one drink per day.  Less is better.

But what if I don't want to make drastic changes to my lifestyle?
You don't have to.  Start with small changes.  Every healthy behavior you adopt
will improve your body's functioning and contribute to your overall health and
well-being -- and reduce your risk for breast cancer.
The Link Between Lifestyle And Breast Cancer
ReduceBreastCancerRisk.com  Contact Us