review · Medicine
Breastfeeding provides a critical protective effect against breast cancer, with epidemiological data demonstrating a clear correlation between lactation and reduced cancer risk. Longer durations of breastfeeding correlate with a dose-dependent reduction in this risk. Biologically, the process involves hormonal shifts and the clearance of potentially damaged cells from breast tissue, which helps restrain carcinogenesis. Furthermore, breastfeeding influences specific tumour characteristics, showing notable links to a lower likelihood of developing aggressive and hormone receptor-negative cancer subtypes. These findings highlight vital public health considerations. Encouraging and facilitating prolonged lactation requires comprehensive education programmes, institutional support, and dedicated health policies designed to protect maternal well-being and lower the broader disease burden.
Breast cancer remains a major global health challenge. Understanding how natural biological processes like lactation lower cancer risks, particularly for aggressive forms, helps public health authorities and healthcare providers design targeted preventive measures. Prioritising breastfeeding support through education and workplace or community policies offers an accessible, non-clinical avenue for reducing disease incidence and improving long-term maternal health outcomes.
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Breastfeeding has emerged as a critical factor in understanding and potentially mitigating the risk of breast cancer among women. This review delves into the intricate relationship between breastfeeding and breast cancer, elucidating the biological mechanisms, protective effects, and broader implications for public health. Epidemiological evidence consistently demonstrates a correlation between breastfeeding and a reduced risk of breast cancer, with longer durations of lactation showing a dose-dependent decrease in risk. The biological nexus between breastfeeding and breast cancer involves hormonal changes and the elimination of potentially damaged cells, influencing breast tissue and potentially mitigating carcinogenesis. Moreover, breastfeeding appears to impact tumor subtypes and aggressiveness, particularly demonstrating associations with lower risks of hormone receptor-negative and certain aggressive breast cancer subtypes. Recognizing the significance of breastfeeding in reducing breast cancer risk has profound public health implications, necessitating comprehensive support, education, and policies to encourage and facilitate breastfeeding.
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DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000037695
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