Understanding the Causes of Breast Cancer
Explore the various causes of breast cancer, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Understanding these risks can help with prevention and early detection strategies.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 12th Aug, 2025
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, but it can also occur in men. While the exact cause of breast cancer isn’t always clear, certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing it. Understanding these causes can help in early detection, prevention, and better management of the condition.
What Is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. If left untreated, these cancerous cells can spread to other parts of the body. Early detection and treatment significantly improve survival rates.
Common Causes and Risk Factors of Breast Cancer
Several factors contribute to the development of breast cancer, including:
1. Genetic Factors
- Family History: If a close relative (mother, sister, or daughter) has had breast cancer, your risk increases.
- Inherited Gene Mutations: Changes in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly raise the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
2. Hormonal Influences
- Early Menstruation or Late Menopause: Starting periods before age 12 or entering menopause after 55 increases exposure to estrogen, raising cancer risk.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use of estrogen and progesterone for menopause symptoms may increase risk.
- Late or No Pregnancy: Women who have their first child after 30 or never give birth have a slightly higher risk.
Consult Top Specialists
3. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
- Obesity: Excess body fat, especially after menopause, increases estrogen levels, contributing to cancer risk.
- Alcohol Consumption: Regular alcohol intake is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.
- Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle may contribute to hormonal imbalances and obesity.
- Radiation Exposure: Previous radiation therapy to the chest (e.g., for Hodgkin’s lymphoma) increases risk.
4. Age and Gender
- Age: The risk increases with age, especially after 50.
- Gender: Women are at higher risk than men, though men can also develop breast cancer.
How Does Breast Cancer Affect Health?
If not detected early, breast cancer can:
- Spread to lymph nodes and other organs (metastasis).
- Cause pain, swelling, and changes in breast shape.
- Lead to complications like lymphedema (arm swelling) after treatment.
Tips to Reduce Breast Cancer Risk
While some risk factors (like genetics) can’t be changed, lifestyle modifications can help lower the risk:
1. Maintain a Healthy Weight
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limit processed foods and sugary drinks.
2. Stay Physically Active
- Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (e.g., walking, swimming).
3. Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking
- If you drink, limit to one drink per day (for women).
- Quit smoking to reduce overall cancer risk.
4. Breastfeed If Possible
- Breastfeeding for at least a year may lower breast cancer risk.
5. Regular Screenings
- Self-Exams: Check your breasts monthly for lumps or changes.
- Clinical Exams: Get a breast exam by a doctor every 1-3 years (especially after 40).
- Mammograms: Women over 40 should discuss screening schedules with their doctor.
When to See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare provider if you notice:
- A new lump in the breast or underarm.
- Changes in breast size, shape, or skin texture.
- Nipple discharge (other than breast milk) or inversion.
- Persistent breast pain.
Early detection saves lives! If you have a family history or other risk factors, consider genetic counselling or regular screenings.
Book a Consultation or Mammogram with Apollo 24|7
If you have concerns about breast cancer risk or need a screening, Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations and mammograms from the comfort of your home. Early detection is key—schedule your test today!
Conclusion
Breast cancer can be daunting, but understanding its causes and taking preventive steps can make a big difference. Stay informed, adopt a healthy lifestyle, and prioritise regular check-ups to protect your health.
Would you like to book a consultation or learn more about breast cancer screenings? Visit Apollo 24|7 for expert care and support.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Amit Choraria
Surgical Oncologist
18 Years • MBBS, MS (Surgery) Fellow, Surgical Oncology, Tata Medical Center (FSO) Fellow, European Board of Surgery (Surgical Oncology) (FEBS) Fellow, Minimal Access Surgery (FMAS) Fellow, Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endosurgeons (FIAGES) UICC Fellow, Royal Marsden NHS, London, UK Visiting Scholar, Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, CGMH, Taiwan Fellow, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Vattikuti Foundation, USA
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
Dr Gowshikk Rajkumar
Oncologist
10 Years • MBBS, DMRT, DNB in Radiation oncology
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Rupam Manna
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
4 Years • MBBS MD(RADIO THERAPY)
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr. Gopal Kumar
Head, Neck and Thyroid Cancer Surgeon
15 Years • MBBS, MS , FARHNS ( Seoul, South Korea ), FGOLF ( MSKCC, New York )
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Vishal Choksi
Head and Neck Surgical Oncologist
20 Years • American Head & Neck Society (AHNS) certified from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Centre, American Board of Surgery (ABS) certified general surgeon, MBBS (India)
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Amit Choraria
Surgical Oncologist
18 Years • MBBS, MS (Surgery) Fellow, Surgical Oncology, Tata Medical Center (FSO) Fellow, European Board of Surgery (Surgical Oncology) (FEBS) Fellow, Minimal Access Surgery (FMAS) Fellow, Indian Association of Gastrointestinal Endosurgeons (FIAGES) UICC Fellow, Royal Marsden NHS, London, UK Visiting Scholar, Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, CGMH, Taiwan Fellow, Robotic Surgical Oncology, Vattikuti Foundation, USA
Kolkata
Apollo Multispeciality Hospitals , Kolkata, Kolkata
Dr Gowshikk Rajkumar
Oncologist
10 Years • MBBS, DMRT, DNB in Radiation oncology
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Rupam Manna
Radiation Specialist Oncologist
4 Years • MBBS MD(RADIO THERAPY)
Barasat
Diab-Eat-Ease, Barasat
Dr. Gopal Kumar
Head, Neck and Thyroid Cancer Surgeon
15 Years • MBBS, MS , FARHNS ( Seoul, South Korea ), FGOLF ( MSKCC, New York )
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Vishal Choksi
Head and Neck Surgical Oncologist
20 Years • American Head & Neck Society (AHNS) certified from Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Centre, American Board of Surgery (ABS) certified general surgeon, MBBS (India)
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad
.webp)
