why breast cancer occurs - #22325
I am really worried about my health right now. A few months ago my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, and it’s been really tough on the family. She was only 52, and it just makes me wonder why breast cancer occurs in the first place. I mean, she had no family history of it, or at least none we knew of! She always lived a pretty healthy lifestyle, although she used to smoke back in the day but quit many years ago. I started doing some digging on why breast cancer occurs and I came across info about hormones, genetics and even environmental factors. Like, is it really possible that something in our environment could trigger this? One of her doctors mentioned lifestyle factors too, but I don’t get it. If she did everything right, why breast cancer occurs at all? Could it be just sheer bad luck? Feeling kind of lost here. Wonder if I should get tested or something, but I'm not even sure what kind of tests really help or what to do next. Do you all think it’s something I should be more concerned about, or is there anything I could do to lower the risk since I know now why breast cancer occurs? Anyone have inputs? Thanks!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Breast cancer can indeed be perplexing because it emerges from a combination of multiple factors, and it’s understandable to feel puzzled especially when someone like your mom seemed to lead a healthy lifestyle. There isn’t a single cause for breast cancer; rather, it’s typically due to an interplay of genetic, hormonal, and environmental influences. Family history isn’t always a contributor, as about 85% of breast cancers occur in women with no family history of the disease. Genetic mutations, like BRCA1 and BRCA2, are well recognized risk factors, but they are not the only ones. Hormones play a pivotal role; prolonged exposure to estrogen, either through early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, can increase risk. Environmental factors are noted too, although their role is less clear deninite, with substances like certain chemicals potentially acting as endocrine disruptors. In terms of lifestyle, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and minimizing alcohol consumption are known ways to reduce risk. Smoking has been indirectly linked as it can influence the general environment of risk factors in the body over time. When considering your own situation, a talk with a healthcare provider about genetic counseling or screening might be beneficial, as they can evaluate whether genetic testing is suitable. Mammograms and self-exams are valuable parts of surveillance, especially if you’re approaching the age where screening typically begins or if you have concerns. Generally, be proactive by adhering to a healthy lifestyle; while it doesn’t eliminate the risk entirely, it can help manage and potentially lower it.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.