December 1, 2008
WHAT WE KNOW AND WHAT WE CAN DO
 The good news is that the number of new cases of breast cancer has been decreasing in the past several years. Researchers are not certain why the incidence of breast cancer is falling, but some speculate that it might be the result of fewer women using hormone replacement therapy. Let me share with you some other ways that the number of new cases of breast cancer could be driven down even further.
It is known that oral contraceptives increase the risk of breast cancer. In fact, in 2005, the World Health Organization classified them as Group I Carcinogens, known to cause cancer in humans. Today over 100 million women around the world use birth controls pills, yet few of them are aware of their increased risk of breast cancer. This information is not offered in the package inserts required by the FDA in the United States. Spread the word: women need to know about this.
Hormone replacement therapy is known to cause breast cancer. Women should avoid this supplement in their "daily diet" as much as possible.
Regular alcohol use is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, even at only one-half a glass of wine per day. It would be wise for women to restrict their use of alcohol to only the occasional and celebratory treat.
Cigarette smoking is known to increase the risk of breast cancer. Anti-smoking campaigns, aimed specifically at young women, should include this information in their deterrence strategies.
Obesity increases the risk of post-menopausal breast cancer. In addition to the cardiovascular benefits of proper weight control, women should understand that ideal body weight helps to prevent breast cancer.
Finally, walking just 3-4 hours per week can reduce the risk of breast cancer by an average of 30-40%. The benefits of moderate and regular exercise persist even in the presence of other known risk factors for breast cancer. There is nothing not to love about a daily walk. Just do it!
My recommendation to further reduce the number of new cases of breast cancer would be for women to restrict their use of alcohol, stop smoking, avoid oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, maintain ideal body weight and exercise regularly. A vigorous public health policy that emphasizes these known interventions for reducing breast cancer risk would be a welcome CHANGE for 2009, and beyond.
Regards,
Kathleen T. Ruddy, MD
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