Summary:
Risk factors and epidemiology of breast cancer
Washbrook E. Risk factors and epidemiology of breast cancer. WOMEN'S HEALTH MEDICINE 2006; 3:1: 8-14
Breast cancer kills more women than any other form of cancer. It is also the most common form of cancer for women.
Risk factors for breast cancer are manifold. Certain risk factors, such as age and family history are well established, but there are others are not. This study "Risk factors and epidemiology of breast cancer" presents an overview of the real risk factors for breast cancer. It also looks at examples of common risk factor myths such as antiperspirants causing breast cancer. It has been claimed that antiperspirants contain harmful ingredients and cause breast cancer by preventing the body purging toxins through the sweat glands. However, there is no credible scientific or medical evidence to suggest that the use of antiperspirants increases the risk of breast cancer.
Myths such as this are often perpetuated by the media, an important source of health information for women, creating further confusion and distress around this issue. Due to such media misrepresentation of risk factors, and in spite of the evidence concerning the actual risks of breast cancer, women often have a poor understanding of its causes, and limited personal risk perception. Awareness and accurate knowledge of breast cancer risk factors are crucial to encourage people to prevent, detect and manage the disease.
This study reviews the risk factors for breast cancer, and examines the research on women's perception of risk and understanding of risk factors, and the reporting of breast cancer in the media. If you would like the full version of this study then click here for it to be sent to you (please specify your full postal address - including postcode).