Not Just Descendants, Recognize 6 Other Risk Factors Of Breast Cancer

Illustration of the risk factors for breast cancer (Freepik)

JAKARTA - In Indonesia, breast cancer is among the most common types of cancer suffered by women. Not a few women died from breast cancer.

According to Global Cancer Observatory data, more than 66,000 cases of new breast cancer findings in Indonesian women in 2022, with an incidence ratio of 30 percent.

When compared with the trend in previous years, the incidence rate did not decrease significantly. If not handled seriously, then the potential to continue to increase from year to year.

"Many young people have breast cancer, especially their mothers have cancer," said Dr. Iskandar, SpB Subsp.Onk(K), MPH, an oncology surgeon when met in the Cijantung area, East Jakarta on Tuesday (2/10/2024).

"Many are affected at a young age. Breast cancer cases are at most number 1 in the world. Meanwhile in Indonesia number 2. The death rate is quite high when viewed from global data," he continued.

dr. Iskandar said there are four causes of breast cancer. Among them are genetic factors, lifestyle, hormones, and radiation. Of the four, dr. Iskandar said breast cancer patients often occur due to genetic factors.

"The most influence is from the family. If the mother is positive for breast cancer, then the child is usually affected," he added.

There are several factors that affect the risk of breast cancer. It includes gender, age, genetics, family history, menstrual and reproductive health history, obesity to taking hormone drugs.

1. Gender: Women are more likely to get breast cancer than men.

2. Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with most breast cancer developing after 50 years of age.

3. Genetics: Inherited gene mutations cause about five to 10 percent of diagnosed breast cancer. BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations are the most common genetic mutations associated with breast cancer, although other mutations can also increase risk. This genetic mutation is passed down by parents.

4. Family history: The risk increases if the mother, sister, or father suffers from breast cancer, especially if the diagnosis is before the age of 50.

5. History of menstrual and reproductive health: Women who experience menstruation earlier (before the age of 12), enter a late menopause period (after the age of 55), giving birth at an older age or never giving birth has a higher risk of breast cancer.

6. Weight excess or obesity: Unhealthy weight increases the risk of breast cancer, especially if you are overweight or obese.

7. Consumption of hormone drugs: Consumption of hormone drugs for more than five years during menopause increases the risk of breast cancer. Some oral contraception (KB Pill) also increases the risk of breast cancer.