Breast cancer risk: a lifetime view.

Does my breast cancer risk change throughout my lifetime?

From the womb to our later years, our bodies undergo remarkable transformations, and our breast cancer risk reflects these changes. Understanding the factors influencing our risk throughout life allows us to make informed choices to safeguard our health.

Many of our life stage pages talk about how your exposure to Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)  at key points in your life affects your breast cancer risk.  

We also look at the menopause and how this period in your life can also affect your risk, as well as explaining factors that can reduce your risk such as breastfeeding.

What impacts my risk during my lifetime?

How does being pregnant affect my breast cancer risk and my baby?

During pregnancy, you can be exposed to Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) from various sources, including food and water. These may affect both you and your baby's lifetime risk of breast cancer.

Does breastfeeding reduce my risk of breast cancer?

Breastfeeding reduces breast cancer risk; the longer you breastfeed, the more your risk is reduced.  In addition to this, there are many other health benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and child.

What is my child's risk of breast cancer as they grow?

As your child grows, their bodies undergo many changes.  During these developmental periods, their bodies may be more susceptible to chemical exposures.

What happens to my breast cancer risk during menopause?

Your body undergoes multiple changes during menopause. These are mainly ovarian and hormonal.  Menopause does not cause breast cancer. Yet, your risk of developing breast cancer increases with age.