Breast Cancer Risk and Body Size in Young Women
Author Information
Author(s): Coates R J, Uhler R J, Hall H I, Potischman N, Brinton L A, Ballard-Barbash R, Gammon M D, Brogan D R, Daling J R, Malone K E, Schoenberg J B, Swanson C A
Primary Institution: Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
What is the relationship between body size and weight gain in adolescence and early adulthood and the risk of breast cancer in young women?
Conclusion
The study found that weight gain after age 20 is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer, particularly for less aggressive forms of the disease.
Supporting Evidence
- Women who were much heavier or lighter than average in adolescence had a reduced risk of breast cancer.
- Weight gain after age 20 was linked to a reduced risk of breast cancer.
- The risk reduction was specific to early-stage and lower grade breast cancer.
Takeaway
If young women gain weight after turning 20, it might actually lower their chances of getting breast cancer, especially the less serious types.
Methodology
The study used a population-based case control design with logistic regression to analyze data from women diagnosed with breast cancer and matched controls.
Limitations
The study may not account for all potential confounding factors influencing breast cancer risk.
Participant Demographics
Women less than 45 years of age newly diagnosed with breast cancer and age-matched controls.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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