ICMR study warns of significant rise in Indian breast cancer cases; here are some risk factors

A recent, major systematic review and meta analysis by the ICMR National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR) has fundamentally shifted the understanding of risk factors driving Indian breast cancer. The study projects a significant annual increase of 5.6% in the disease burden. These are some of the risks why breast cancer seems to be on a rise. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Being Female and Increasing Age: Being female is by far the strongest risk factor for breast cancer. Women have far more breast tissue influenced by hormones like oestrogen, which can promote cancer cell growth. In addition, the risk increases with age, especially after age 50. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Family History of Breast Cancer: A family history of breast cancer — especially in first-degree relatives like a mother, sister, or daughter significantly increases risk. Having multiple affected family members or early onset cases may indicate inherited risk patterns. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Inherited Genetic Mutations: Certain inherited gene mutations, particularly BRCA1 and BRCA2, greatly raise breast cancer risk, often leading to cancer at younger ages. These genetic changes affect DNA repair mechanisms and can be passed down through families. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Alcohol Consumption: Even moderate alcohol intake is linked with an increased breast cancer risk. Alcohol can influence oestrogen levels and other pathways involved in tumour development. The risk increases with the amount consumed. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Hormonal and Reproductive Factors: Certain hormone related aspects affect risk like starting periods at a younger age (before age 12), menopause at a later age (after age 55),having your first full-term pregnancy after age 30 or never having a full term pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy after menopause also increases risk. These factors prolong lifetime exposure to oestrogen and progesterone. (Source: Photo by unsplash)

Obesity and Radiation Exposure: Obesity, especially after menopause, increases risk likely due to higher oestrogen levels from fat tissue. Additionally, prior radiation therapy to the chest (e.g., for treatment of another cancer at a young age) significantly raises future breast cancer risk. (Source: Photo by unsplash)