Let's learn about the link between exercising and reducing your risk of breast cancer, as well as debunk some common myths. Firstly, it’s important to understand what breast cancer is, and what are the causes and risk factors.
BREAST CANCER – THE BASICS
Breast cancer develops when cells in the breast start growing uncontrollably and create tumours. The causes of breast cancer are not fully understood yet, but we know that your genetics, environment and lifestyle choices contribute to the risk of developing breast cancer.
Key risk factors may include:
- Genetics: Family history and gene mutations
- Physical Traits: Being born female, age, high breast density, and early menstruation are linked to higher risk.
- Environment: Pollution, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals may contribute (keep reading for more information on EDCs).
- Lifestyle: Breastfeeding, obesity, physical activity, consuming alcohol, smoking, as well as what you eat may increase risk.
QUICK FACT : Men can also get breast cancer, so be sure to tell the men in your life to perform at-home checks.
Oestrogen & Breast Cancer
Hormones play a significant role in breast cancer risk. Elevated levels of oestrogen and progesterone can promote the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. Oestrogen receptor-positive cancers, which account for about 80% of breast cancer cases, rely on oestrogen to grow.
Additionally, high levels of circulating hormones, such as those associated with obesity, can increase breast cancer risk. Excess body fat, particularly in post-menopausal women, leads to higher oestrogen levels because fat tissue produces oestrogen. This hormonal imbalance can further elevate the risk of developing breast cancer.
Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals & Breast Cancer
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can increase breast cancer risk by interfering with hormone systems. These chemicals, which include substances that mimic oestrogen, can influence hormone levels and potentially promote the growth of hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. EDCs are found in everyday products like skincare, makeup, kitchenware, plastics, and food (from pesticides). Long-term exposure to EDCs, especially those that mimic oestrogen, may be linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
For more information and in-depth explanation of factors increasing the risk of breast cancer, visit the Breast Cancer UK Q&A section.
BREAST CANCER MYTHS – DEBUNKED
Does Intense physical activity increase breast cancer risk?
According to Breast Cancer UK, recent studies suggest that staying active can reduce your risk by around 20%, as well as reduce recurrence by up to 30%.
Can exercise aggravate breast cancer?
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, you should consult your medical team before altering any aspect of your physical activity levels.
Exercise can improve physical function, reduce fatigue and improve the overall quality of life. It is also thought that it can lower the level of certain hormones and reduce inflammation, which can help reduce the risk of breast cancer developing and progressing. That does not mean you have to spend hours in the gym lifting or doing cardio. View this page to learn about easy forms of exercise you can do every day.
Are only sedentary women at risk of developing breast cancer?
No. Although a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of breast cancer due to the reasons listed at the beginning of this article, being active doesn’t provide immunity against it. Active women can still develop breast cancer due to other risk factors. Exercising is one important piece of the prevention puzzle.
Summary
Exercise is linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer for several reasons:
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Hormone Regulation: Physical activity helps lower levels of circulating oestrogen and other hormones linked to breast cancer. By reducing oestrogen levels, exercise may help lower the risk of oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancers.
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Weight Management: Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and prevents obesity, which is a known risk factor for breast cancer, particularly in post-menopausal women. Excess body fat can lead to higher oestrogen levels, which can increase cancer risk.
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Immune Function: Exercise can boost the immune system function, helping the body to detect and eliminate abnormal cells before they can develop into cancer.
- Overall Health: Maintaining a physically active lifestyle contributes to the overall health and can help mitigate other risk factors associated with breast cancer, such as chronic inflammation.
For general health and well-being, the World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.
Being breast aware and getting to know your normal can be crucial in the early detection of breast cancer. Learn how to do a quick self-check at home, here.