Breast cancer and late pregnancy: Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, screening delay are key links

Breast cancer is a prevalent and complex disease that begins when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably. It can start in different parts of the breast, typically in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple or in the glands that produce milk. While the exact causes are not fully understood, several risk factors have been identified, including age, family history, genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, and hormonal factors such as early menstruation or late menopause.

Early detection through regular mammograms and screenings is crucial as it increases treatment options and improves outcomes. Symptoms may include a lump in the breast or underarm, changes in breast size or shape, and unusual discharge from the nipple. Treatment options vary depending on the stage of cancer and may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy. Ongoing research continues to improve understanding and treatment of breast cancer, emphasising the importance of awareness, early detection, and support for those affected by this disease.

It has also been said that late pregnancy may slightly increase breast cancer risk due to hormonal influences and genetic factors and detection challenges may arise from breast tissue changes and delayed screenings, says Delhi-based oncologist Rahul Dhar from Felix Global healthcare.

Here are the 7 ways breast cancer and late pregnancy are interlinked

Hormonal influence: Pregnancy later in life, especially after age 30, can expose women to higher levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which can influence breast tissue and potentially promote cancerous cell growth.

Cellular changes: Pregnancy triggers significant changes in breast tissue, including cell proliferation and differentiation. These changes can increase the likelihood of mutations that lead to cancer.

Breast tissue density: Older age at pregnancy is associated with increased breast tissue density, which can make it harder to detect tumors early on mammograms and may be linked to a higher risk of breast cancer.

Genetic factors: Women who delay pregnancy may also have genetic predispositions that increase their susceptibility to breast cancer. Certain genetic mutations, like BRCA1 and BRCA2, are known to significantly raise breast cancer risk.

Reproductive history: Late pregnancy often correlates with a woman's overall reproductive history, including fewer pregnancies or no pregnancies before the late conception, which in turn can affect breast cancer risk.

Lifestyle factors: Women who delay pregnancy may have different lifestyle factors, such as diet, physical activity, and alcohol consumption, which can independently influence breast cancer risk.

Early detection challenges: Delayed pregnancies may coincide with older age at which routine breast cancer screenings begin, potentially delaying detection and treatment of breast cancer if it develops.