The 2 surprising factors that ‘increase your breast cancer risk' as Kara Tointon reveals brave mastectomy
BREAST cancer, it's a disease we've all heard of - most of us will know someone affected - but do you know your risk of developing it?
Yesterday, former EastEnders star Kara Tointon revealed she's taken the decision to have a double mastectomy after discovering she carries a gene that increases her risk. But did you know, there are everyday factors that can influence your chances of the disease - including your height?
9
Kara Tointon revealed she underwent a double mastectomy back in 2021
9
Former EastEnders star Kara bravely spoke out on her own experience to raise awareness of the disease
Credit: Getty
The 41-year-old posted an Instagram video to raise awareness of the preventative measure, after discovering she was at risk of both breast and ovarian cancer.
She said: "You may have heard of the BRCA genes 1 and 2 and as a carrier it means I am at a greater risk of both breast and ovarian cancer."
The soap star was asked to take a genetics test when her mum Carol was undergoing treatment for ovarian cancer back in 2018.
Sadly, her mum died in 2019.
After having her second son in 2021 and deciding her family was complete, she underwent two preventative surgeries - the first a double mastectomy and the second a two-part procedure involving the removal of the fallopian tubes and later the ovaries.
BRCA stands for BReast CAncer. It refers to the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which are tumor suppressor genes that play a role in DNA repair and preventing uncontrolled cell growth.
When these genes have alterations (mutations), it can increase the risk of developing breast cancer and other cancers.
According to Dr Deborah Lee, of Dr Fox Online Pharmacy, women who carry abnormal BRAC 1 and BRAC2 genes have an 85 per cent increased lifetime risk of breast cancer.
She added: "Breast cancer is more likely to occur at an earlier age and to affect both breasts.
"The risk of ovarian cancer is also increased."
Individuals are at a higher risk of carrying BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations if they have a family history of breast, ovarian, or prostate cancer, particularly if multiple close relatives have been diagnosed.
A tiny lump in my breast nearly killed me at just 31 - I felt 'amazingly healthy'
If you think you could be at risk, Dr Lee advises seeing your GP.
She said: "After a consultation, you may be referred for predictive genetic testing.
"There are pros and cons of having the predictive test and not everyone will want to have it.
"Before you have the test, you will be offered genetic counselling. The test is a blood test."
Two risk factors that might surprise you
BRCA genes aren't the only risk factor for breast cancer.
Dr Kerri Palmer-Quinn, senior scientific research officer at Breast Cancer UK, says the biggest risk factor is ageing - something we unfortunately cannot control.
Like many cancers, family history of the disease and various lifestyle and environmental factors can also influence your risk
But other risk factors for breast cancer may surprise you.
Being tall
9
Being tall can slightly increase your risk of breast cancer
Credit: Getty
Studies suggest there's a slight link between height and breast cancer risk, with taller women potentially having a slightly higher chance of developing the disease.
Dr Palmer-Quinn said: "Being tall can slightly increase your risk of breast cancer.
"The reasons behind this association are still being investigated, however it may be linked to the growth spurts taller woman have during early development.
"These growth spurts mean that taller women may have higher levels of certain growth factors as well as the growth hormone insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1).
"IGF-1 can promote cell growth and prevent programmed cell death which can increase the risk of cancer, including breast cancer."
High breast density
9
Having high breast density is strongly associated with the disease
Credit: Getty
Having high breast density (also known as mammographic density) is a strong risk factor for breast cancer.
Dr Palmer-Quinn explained: "having dense breasts means you have higher proportions of fibrous and glandular tissue which is where breast cancers are more likely to arise, in comparison to fat tissue.
"Breast density can only be determined by a mammogram scan and isn't related to how your breasts look or feel.
"Having dense breasts can make these mammogram scans more difficult to interpret meaning potential cancers are harder to identify.
"Breast density can be influenced by your genetics and potentially the environment; it also may change overtime and tends to reduce with age."
Other risk factors to be aware of
While some breast cancer risk factors are unavoidable, including age, others are modifiable and can be addressed to potentially lower your risk.
Weight gain throughout adulthood
9
Weight gain through adulthood can increase the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer
Credit: Getty
Weight gain throughout adulthood increases the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer; particularly if the weight gain occurs after menopause has taken places, advised Dr Palmer-Quinn.
She added: "After menopause, the body's production of the sex hormone oestrogen shifts from the ovaries to fat tissue. Therefore, increased body fat can lead to higher levels of circulating oestrogen, which is a known risk factor for breast cancer.
"In addition, excess body fat can contribute to chronic inflammation and disrupt hormone regulation in ways that may further increase breast cancer risk."
What you can do: To maintain a healthy weight, focus on a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and healthy lifestyle habits. Prioritise fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, and limit sugary drinks and processed foods. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
Alcohol consumption
9
Alcohol can raise levels of circulating oestrogen and raise the risk of breast cancer
Credit: Getty
Any level of alcohol consumption can increase the risk of developing breast cancer - there is no safe threshold.
Dr Palmer-Quinn explained: "Alcohol raises levels of circulating oestrogen.
"It is also broken down into acetaldehyde, a compound that can damage DNA and potentially lead to cancer.
"Additionally, alcohol can contribute to weight gain, which may further increase risk, particularly after menopause."
What you can do: When it comes to giving up alcohol it can help to tell your family and friends that you're aiming to stop drinking alcohol and explain why. This way, you can share your successes with them, and they'll understand why you've started turning down drinks or trips to the pub. Try to identify the times when you would usually drink and fill the gap with something else. And remember to enjoy the benefits, including weight loss, better sleep, and more energy.
Smoking
9
Smoking has been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer by 10 per cent
Credit: Getty
Studies have shown a small but statistically significant increased risk of breast cancer in women who smoke compared to those who have never smoked.
Dr Lee said: "Current smoking increases the risk of breast cancer by 10 per cent compared to those who have never smoked."
What you can do: The most effective way to quit smoking is to combine nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or other medications with professional support from a local stop smoking service.
Lack of exercise
9
Lack of exercise is a well known risk factor for breast cancer, as well as many other types of cancer
Credit: Getty
A lack of physical activity is a well-established risk factor for breast cancer.
Dr Lee explained: "Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer by around 20 per cent.
"Exercise lowers hormone levels and reduces inflammation as well as helping control body weight."
What you can do: To begin exercising, start with low-impact activities like brisk walking, swimming, or yoga, and gradually increase intensity and duration. Set realistic goals, choose activities you enjoy, and schedule exercise into your routine. Consider finding an exercise buddy, using a journal or app to track progress, and varying your workouts to stay motivated.
As well as doing what you can to reduce your risk of breast cancer, make sure you're well aware of the symptoms to look out for - see a GP if you experience any of the below...
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Wales Online
36 minutes ago
- Wales Online
Four key signs of ‘dementia' in dogs affecting one in three pets
Four key signs of 'dementia' in dogs affecting one in three pets While there is no cure for this progressive condition, there are therapies available to help improve your pet's quality of life. Dogs can experience something called canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, which is similar to dementia (Image: Getty ) Experts have shared four key signs of 'dementia' in dogs that is thought to affects around a third of pooches by the age of 11. These symptoms could mean your pet has canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome, a condition related to the ageing of a dog's brain. Also known as CCD or CDS, this condition is often compared to dementia or Alzheimer's in humans. It leads to changes in awareness, deficits in learning and memory, and decreased responsiveness to stimuli. According to experts at Pet MD, the symptoms of CCD often start mild and get progressively worse, similar to the effects of dementia. They said: 'Although the initial symptoms of the disorder are mild, they gradually worsen over time, beyond what can be expected with normal ageing. 'These pets experience 'cognitive decline', which is the slow decrease in the brain's ability to perform normal tasks. In fact, clinical signs of cognitive dysfunction syndrome are found in nearly one in three dogs over the age of 11, and by the age of 16, nearly all dogs display at least one sign.' While there is no cure for CCD, there are therapies available to ensure your pet has the best quality of life possible. Therefore, getting diagnosed sooner rather than later is important. Pet MD listed four of the 'most common' symptoms of dementia in dogs. These are: Disorientation/confusion Changes in behaviour Anxiety/restlessness/impaired memory Changes in sleep cycle Disorientation or confusion caused by CCD might translate as getting stuck going around objects, not recognising familiar people or pets, staring blankly at walls, and pacing. Whereas changes in behaviour can be spotted in extreme irritability, decreased desire to play, excessive licking, lack of self-grooming, or loss of appetite. Anxiety, restlessness and an impaired memory could lead to seeming disregard for previously learned training or house rules, your pet being slow to learn new tasks, an inability to follow familiar routes, and faecal and urinary soiling in the home. Signs of changes in sleep cycle can include night waking, night vocalisation, and night pacing. If you think your dog is displaying signs of CCD you should speak to your vet. Charity PDSA says: 'Contact your vet if you've noticed changes in your dog's behaviour because symptoms of cognitive dysfunction usually get worse with time.' The exact causes of CCD are not known, but it is thought many of the same changes that cause problems as people age are likely to also cause problems as our pets age. How to care for a dog with CCD 'Dogs with canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome require lifelong therapy and support,' Pet MD says. 'While there is no cure, there are several things that you can do at home to help your dog's cognitive functions.' Article continues below These include: Maintaining a healthy and stimulating environment including daily routine of exercise, play and mental stimulation Maintaining a strict routine Making your home more accessible and safer Night lights can help your senior dog navigate in the dark Potty pads near doors give your pup a place to go if they can't make it until you come home or wake up Orthopaedic foam beds (with washable covers) can make sleep more comfortable Your vet may also recommend medication and behavioural therapy, a special, balanced diet, supplements and anti-anxiety tablets.
Wales Online
an hour ago
- Wales Online
Vet issues urgent message to anyone with a dog over 3 years old
Vet issues urgent message to anyone with a dog over 3 years old Vet Laura Londoño says by detecting issues early it can stop the disease from spreading Millions of people across the UK have at least one dog (Image: Paul Baggaley via Getty Images ) According to a veterinarian, if your dog is over three years old, you may want to check their teeth. The expert, Laura Londoño, warned that '80% of dogs over three years old have some form of dental disease" - and the vast majority of owners are unaware of this. In her Instagram post, where she offers advice to owners - new and experienced - she notes that you should always be on the look out for issues rather than waiting for them to happen. "That's why preventive veterinary checkups are so important, not just when there's already a problem. "Often, during a consultation, we notice things you haven't yet noticed, and by detecting them early, we can help stop the disease from progressing and give you the right instructions... before it's too late.' She urges owners to "check their [dogs] gums, breath, and if they have difficulty eating" to get them checked out. Stressing that "oral health is general health", she advises people who may not have a dog to inform those who do "so they can check their dog's teeth today." In further advice from the PDSA, they state that adult dogs have a total of 42 permanent teeth - 20 in the upper jaw and 22 in the lower jaw. Like humans, they first develop deciduous (milk or puppy) teeth, which are later replaced by their full set of adult teeth, typically by around six months of age. What causes dental disease in dogs? Unfortunately, dental disease is a very common problem in dogs and can be due to: Poor dental hygiene – a lack of tooth brushing. a lack of tooth brushing. Age - dental disease is common in older dogs due to wear and tear dental disease is common in older dogs due to wear and tear Breed - some breeds are prone to dental disease for example Toy Poodles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Greyhounds, and King Charles Spaniels. - some breeds are prone to dental disease for example Toy Poodles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Greyhounds, and King Charles Spaniels. Diet – having dry biscuits/kibble as part of your dog's diet may improve oral health. – having dry biscuits/kibble as part of your dog's diet may improve oral health. Retained baby teeth - your dog's baby teeth will begin falling out at approximately four months old when their adult teeth start to come through. If their baby teeth don't fall out, dental problems are more likely due to an overcrowded mouth. Your vet might recommend removing these baby teeth under anaesthetic. - your dog's baby teeth will begin falling out at approximately four months old when their adult teeth start to come through. If their baby teeth don't fall out, dental problems are more likely due to an overcrowded mouth. Your vet might recommend removing these baby teeth under anaesthetic. Overcrowding of teeth - certain breeds may have overcrowding issues due to the size of their mouth being smaller or shorter for example brachycephalic dogs. If these teeth are too close together they are more likely to cause dental disease. - certain breeds may have overcrowding issues due to the size of their mouth being smaller or shorter for example brachycephalic dogs. If these teeth are too close together they are more likely to cause dental disease. Trauma - a fractured tooth is often extremely painful and can become infected. Fractured teeth can happen from chewing a hard object or from a head injury for example in a road traffic accident. What is the signs and symptoms of dental disease in dogs? Content cannot be displayed without consent Article continues below Many dogs don't show any symptoms of dental disease so regular checks at home and with your vet are essential. If they do show symptoms it can include:
Daily Mail
9 hours ago
- Daily Mail
The TikTok-famous root cover-up stick that hides grays in seconds is now 30% off: 'It's been a lifesaver between hair appointments'
There is nothing worse than getting your hair colored and styled, and then noticing a few months later that your roots are starting to grey again — my mom struggles with this issue all the time. It's frustrating and expensive going back to the salon frequently for this pesky problem. Fortunately, there's a $39 solution that truly lives up to the hype. Plus, it's on mega sale right now at 30 percent off with code STICKS30 used at checkout. Style Edit Root Touch Up Stick Cover up grays within seconds with this root cover up stick. It's available in four colors and has a non-sticky formula that doesn't stain or smear. Shop it now for 30 percent off. $27.30 (30% off) Shop TikTok-viral, Instagram-famous, and a national TV star, Style Edit's Root Touch Up Stick is the answer to your woes. It comes in four colors (Black, Dark Brown, Medium Brown, and Light Brown) and is the most effective way to hide any greying. It's compact and easy to use too — just apply it on the desired area, then use the sponge tip to blend. Three seconds is all you need, according to the brand. You'll want to apply it directly to clean, dry hair, and it works best on your hairline, temples, or even your brows. It also doesn't run or stain, so you never have to worry about this cover up stick accidentally getting on your work shirt. The formula is non-sticky too, and it stays in place until you wash it out — yes, this means it won't get on your pillow either. Plus, it's weatherproof, holding up whether it's rain or shine. Even increased levels of humidity this summer won't affect it! Apart from graying roots, it's quite useful for individuals like me who have hair thinning near the scalp — you can simply color in those spots to give your hair a fuller, thicker look. Amazon customers seem to love it too, with more than 1,000 reviews on the e-tailer's site. 'I bought this stick and now I'm on my second one. I like that it's a thick wax that adheres, blends well, and stays. No smears, residue, or weird-feeling hair even in the summer 100°F/40°C heat,' says one happy shopper. Another adds: 'I love how quick and simple this product is to use. Easy application in areas I want covered up until my next hair coloring job. It's been a lifesaver at times when I didn't want my grow-out to be so obvious.' It's easy to see why shoppers love this product — it's quick, easy to use, and does the job. The next time you're a few weeks out from your hair appointment and in a pinch, use this root cover-up stick to hide any stray gray strands. Buy it now for 30 percent off with code STICKS30 on Amazon, and make sure to grab a couple so you're never caught without it.
