Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2024: Here's how smoking can increase risk of cancer in young women

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, though it can also occur in men. It begins when abnormal cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour. While breast cancer can develop in different parts of the breast, it most commonly starts in the milk ducts or glands. Risk factors include age, genetics, hormonal influences, and lifestyle choices, such as diet and alcohol consumption. Early detection through regular screenings like mammograms significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Common symptoms include lumps in the breast, changes in breast shape, and nipple discharge. Treatment options vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer and can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.

For breast cancer awareness, it's crucial to highlight the link between smoking and increased breast cancer risk, especially in young women. Research suggests that smoking, particularly at a young age, may elevate the risk of developing breast cancer in several ways, says Dr Anjali Mehta, Senior Oncologist at Shakti Care Cancer Institute, Pune.

• Increased Risk for Oestrogen-Receptor Positive (ER+) Breast Cancer:

Smoking is linked to a higher risk of oestrogen-receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer. Carcinogens in cigarettes can damage breast cells’ DNA, increasing the likelihood of harmful mutations, says Dr Mehta. These mutations may trigger uncontrolled growth in breast cells, raising the risk of cancer in younger women, especially those who smoke early.

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• Impact on hormonal balance:

Smoking can disrupt hormonal balance, particularly affecting oestrogen levels, a key hormone in breast cell development. Altered oestrogen metabolism leads to faster cell division and growth, including abnormal cells. This hormonal imbalance increases the risk of developing breast cancer, especially in premenopausal women who smoke regularly.

• Premature menopause:

Smoking can trigger early-onset menopause, reducing protective oestrogen exposure over time. This sudden hormonal shift can increase the risk of hormone-related cancers, including breast cancer, says Dr Mehta. Women who experience menopause earlier due to smoking are more likely to develop breast cancer than non-smokers of the same age group.

• Reduced effectiveness of treatment:

Smoking diminishes the effectiveness of treatments like chemotherapy and radiation in breast cancer patients. It can impair immune responses, reduce blood oxygen levels, and slow tissue healing. This hampers recovery prolongs treatment, and reduces the chances of treatment success, complicating the battle against breast cancer.

• Increased risk in BRCA mutation carriers:

Women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations already face higher breast cancer risks. Smoking compounds this risk, accelerating DNA damage in breast cells. In these genetically predisposed individuals, smoking may hasten cancer development, making early preventive measures like smoking cessation especially critical to managing their long-term health.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnoses.