Breast cancer majorly affects women, and even men in a few instances. This cancer is caused by a change in the DNA of the breast cells, which alters essential functions that control cell growth and division. The most common symptom is a change in the feel or appearance of the breast, or the presence of a lump. While breast cancer is not always preventable, there are certainly some common factors that increase the likelihood of someone getting this disease.

Common causes of breast cancer include the following:

1. Smoking

Smoking can bring on a multitude of health issues, and particularly various cancers. This is the case because smoke directly affects the cells in the lungs, and this cell damage can spread to other parts of the body. Smoking can also increase complications during cancer treatment; it damages the lungs after radiation therapy, and makes it difficult to heal after undergoing a breast reconstruction. Additionally, smoking when taking hormonal therapy medicines (i.e., birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy) can increase the risk of blood clots.

2. Excess weight

Managing weight is hard, especially in countries like the US, where a study says 70% of adults are considered overweight. Those with excess weight are at a higher risk of diabetes, heart diseases, and other complications. Having more fat tissue in your body increases the level of estrogen, which can allow breast cancer to develop. Women who are overweight also have high insulin levels, which are linked to cancer, including breast cancer. Excess weight can often be controlled by eating healthy foods and exercising.

3. Alcohol usage

Alcohol contains estrogen, which can cause various types of cancer including breast, mouth, throat, liver, and many more. People with breast cancer should completely avoid alcohol, since even small amounts can put you at risk. In general, alcohol should be limited as part of a healthy lifestyle.

4. Hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy increases your chances of getting breast cancer. It is helpful in reducing symptoms of menopause by increasing estrogen levels, but these high levels of estrogen can also contribute to the development of breast cancer. The longer you use HRT, the more you put yourself at risk of getting breast cancer. If you are considering using HRT, make sure you discuss all the possible side effects with your doctor.

5. Exposure to pollution

Pollution in our air has been strongly linked with various types of cancer, especially lung cancer. According to research, breast cancer can also be caused by a high level of nitrogen dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Being exposed to air that contains hazardous and toxic substances also puts you at risk. Traffic-related pollution is also a factor to be aware of. Overall, you should limit your exposure to areas with poor air quality.

6. Radiation

Radiation causes angiosarcoma of the breast. However, his type of breast cancer only develops about 8 to 10 years after being exposed to radiation. When it does develop, it grows quickly and can spread to other parts of the body. Radiation causes cancer by separating atoms in the body, destroying DNA in the cells. Radiation therapy for cancer can also be dangerous, causing other types of cancer to develop.

In conclusion, for those who are dealing with breast cancer or have a family history of this disease, it is important to avoid certain habits like smoking and alcohol consumption. Prioritizing a healthy way of living can be the most helpful method in preventing breast cancer in the first place.