Causes of Breast Cancer: What Women Need to Know

Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Indonesia and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Therefore, it is crucial to understand its contributing factors as a step toward anticipation and prevention.

Breast cancer is a type of malignant tumor that develops in the breast tissue. This tumor forms when the cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, dividing faster than normal cells and forming lumps or masses. In advanced stages, these abnormal cells can spread through the lymph nodes to other parts of the body, causing more serious complications.

Breast cancer typically begins in the milk ducts or lobules, which are the milk-producing glands. Abnormal cells that develop in these areas can form a tumor, which may be felt during a physical exam or detected through a mammogram. Breast cancer is more commonly found in women, but this condition can also affect men, although cases are very rare.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in Indonesia, with a very high mortality rate. One of the main reasons for this high mortality is that many cases are only diagnosed at an advanced stage. At this point, the chances of recovery are much lower, highlighting the importance of early detection. However, when breast cancer is detected early, the survival rate is significantly higher.

According to the Ministry of Health Indonesia, about 70% of breast cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Research has shown that around 43% of cancer-related deaths can be prevented through early detection, timely treatment, and avoiding risk factors.

Therefore, understanding the facts about breast cancer is an important step in raising awareness and preventing this potentially deadly disease.

While the exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown, several factors are believed to play a role in increasing the risk of developing this disease. Genetics, lifestyle, environment, and hormones are some of the key factors that can influence the likelihood of cells turning into cancer. Here are some of the risk factors that may increase the chances of developing breast cancer:

1. Age: The risk of breast cancer increases as you get older.
2. Family History: Having close relatives who have had breast cancer can increase your risk.
3. Genetic Mutations: Changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are known to increase the risk of breast cancer.
4. Personal History: If you have previously had breast cancer in one breast, you are at higher risk of developing cancer in the other breast.
5. Hormonal Factors: Factors such as early menstruation, late menopause, or using hormone replacement therapy after menopause can influence the risk of breast cancer.

By understanding these factors, we can be more proactive in managing our health and taking steps to prevent breast cancer.

While the exact cause of breast cancer remains uncertain, many experts suggest that it can result from a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors. Here’s an overview of each:

1. Genetic Factors

   Having a family history of breast cancer, especially among close relatives like parents or siblings, increases your chances of developing the same disease. Genetic mutations, particularly those inherited from parents, play a major role in this.

2. Hormonal Influence

   Sex hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone exist in both men and women, with women having higher levels of estrogen and progesterone. When these hormone levels exceed normal levels, the risk of developing breast cancer increases. If there is an imbalance in the hormones directly related to breast cells, it can trigger uncontrolled cell growth, which may lead to breast cancer.

3. Unhealthy Lifestyle

   Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is often emphasized as a way to prevent various diseases, including breast cancer. A poor lifestyle can disrupt the body’s hormone balance, increasing the risk of breast cancer. Risk factors linked to unhealthy habits include:

• Smoking: The harmful substances in cigarettes can damage body cells and increase the likelihood of cancer, including breast cancer.
• Low Physical Activity: Lack of movement or insufficient physical activity can increase body mass index and trigger obesity, which is a major risk factor for breast cancer.
• Late-Night Eating: Eating or snacking at night can disrupt the body’s metabolism, which slows down during sleep. High calorie and glucose intake at night can raise blood sugar levels, ultimately increasing the risk of breast cancer.
• Insufficient Sleep: Staying up late or working night shifts disrupts sleep patterns, affecting melatonin levels— a hormone that helps fight cancer.
• Birth Control Pills: Contraceptive pills containing estrogen can stimulate breast cells, increasing the risk of breast cancer. However, low-dose pills (less than 0.02 mg) are generally considered safe. Consult with your doctor about the best contraceptive options for you.
4. Unhealthy Diet

   What we eat daily can affect our health, including increasing the risk of breast cancer. An unhealthy diet, such as one high in saturated fats, sugar, or charred foods, can promote cell changes in the body that may lead to cancer. Therefore, maintaining a balanced and healthy diet is crucial for reducing cancer risk.

According to the Ministry of Health’s Directorate of Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Indonesia, there are additional factors that may increase the risk of breast cancer, such as:

• Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke (passive smoking)
• A poor diet (high fat, low fiber, containing preservatives or artificial colorants)
• Starting menstruation before age 12
• Menopause after age 50
• Having the first child after age 35
• Never breastfeeding
• Previous breast surgery due to benign or malignant tumors

Preventing breast cancer is a crucial step in reducing the risk of this disease, especially given the rising incidence and mortality rates every year. While there’s no surefire way to completely avoid breast cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle and performing regular early detection tests can significantly lower the risk. By managing these risk factors and following the recommendations below, you can be more vigilant and proactive in protecting your breast health.

Here are some recommended steps to reduce the risk of breast cancer:

• Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Consume a healthy, well-rounded diet to support overall health.
• Avoid smoking and all harmful substances in cigarettes.
• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption to reduce cancer risk.
• Perform regular breast self-examinations, known as BSE (Breast Self-Examination), for early detection.
• Limit hormone therapy after menopause, especially those that may increase breast cancer risk.

Given the significant risk factors and the fact that the exact causes of breast cancer are still unclear, early detection remains a key component in prevention. Regular breast self-exams and scheduled mammograms can help detect breast cancer in its early stages. Finding cancer early offers the best opportunity for effective treatment and better outcomes.

Early detection allows for faster and more manageable treatment with more targeted therapies. Leading cancer hospitals under IHH Healthcare Malaysia, with dedicated specialists and multidisciplinary oncology experts, are ready to provide consultations and the best care through screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have concerns or questions about breast cancer treatment options, don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment today.