Posted: September 30, 2008, 5:05 PM by Shereen Dindar World, News, Science & Health, Health, life
The size of a female baby at birth might affect the likelihood of her developing breast cancer later in life, says a new study published in PLoS Medicine. Although studies have been done before on the issue, this one provides some of the most conclusive evidence yet. The study evaluated 32 previously published and unpublished studies on the issue, looking at 22,000 cases of breast cancer among more than 600,000 women. Lead researcher, Isabel dos Santos Silva (MD, PhD), found the longer the length of the baby, the more likely breast cancer was to develop. This association also existed for baby weight, but to a lesser extent.
Experts are warning there is no need for women panic, if they were a bigger baby. They have not determined why this association exists, and thus, have not made special recommendations for women who were larger babies. The normal rules apply for all women. While it was once suggested to do a breast self-examination once a month, doctors now say that getting to know what is normal for your breasts is more effective in preventing cancer. Here are some screening guidelines from the Canadian Cancer Society:
Age 40 to 49 -- Have a clinical breast examination by a trained healthcare professional at least every 2 years. Talk to your doctor about your risk of breast cancer, along with the benefits and risks of mammography.
Age 50 to 69 -- Have a clinical breast examination by a trained healthcare professional at least every 2 years.Have a mammogram every 2 years.
Age 70 or older -- Talk to your doctor about how often you should be tested for breast cancer.
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