Lifestyle factors could put college-age women at increased risk of breast cancer

Newswise - Breast cancer prevention must become a conversation shared among women of all ages, as you can attack at any age and is usually more aggressive when diagnosed in women younger than 50 years. In the hope of awakening that discussion, Isabelle Mercier, PhD, Assistant Professor of research at the University of Sciences, compiled some tips of the awareness of key prevention for young women.

"Unfortunately, college-age women generally are not considered at risk for breast cancer," said Dr. Mercier. "However, there are several risk factors that contribute to the development of breast cancer that must understand early in life to prevent the development of the breast cancer in the road."

At the end of 2013, expected more than 230,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer being diagnosed in the United States of those cases, not survive approximately 40,000 people, said Dr. Mercier. Women in their 20s should be early be aware of some key risk factors associated with breast cancer:

(1) See its family tree. A family history of breast cancer, particularly in a mother or sister, may increase the likelihood of developing breast cancer. Genetic tests are recommended for young women with prevalence of breast cancer in their families.

(2) Care for their weight. Obesity is responsible for up to 20 percent of the deaths associated with cancer in women. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of breast cancer through the creation of an environment conducive to cancer through the fat cells.

(3) Exercising regularly. Women striving for at least 2.5 hours of moderate, such as walking-intensity activity - reduce your risk of cancer of breast by 18 percent.

(4) Limit the consumption of alcohol. According to new research from the Washington University School of Medicine, if a woman an average of one drink a day increases your risk of breast cancer by 11 percent. Studies show that alcohol has estrogenic activity, thus promoting the growth of breast cancer cells.

(5) Visit yearly doc. Although mammograms are not recommended for women under 40 years of age, young women should still see their primary care physicians each year for the clinical breast exams. You are also encouraged to perform breast self-exam throughout the year.

(6) Limit the use of tobacco. Women who smoke have an increased risk of developing breast cancer, especially if they become smoking early in life. Smokers have increased levels of estrogen and testosterone that could disrupt the endocrine system of signalling in women and contribute to the development of these tumors.

An important part of the research of Dr. Mercier focuses on cancer prevention. The role of the intake of vitamin C in the development of breast cancer, progression, repetition and response to cancer therapy remains unclear. That is why Dr. Mercier and his research team are currently studying the role of dietary supplements in cancer risk, as well as assess new biomarkers for the early detection of breast cancer. He received his Ph.d. in Physiology and BS in Biochemistry from the University of Montreal. For assistance in making arrangements to interview Dr. Mercier, please contact Lauren Whetzel or Brian Kirschner.

At the University of Sciences, students embark on a challenging learning experience in a testing ground for successful professionals in science and health-related fields. A private institution dedicated to education, research and service, and distinguished as the first University in the nation's pharmacy, the University has produced leaders in science and health markets since its founding in 1821. Five universities in USciences students learn to Excel in scientific analysis and to apply their skills to improve health care in the lives of people around the world through such disciplines such as pharmacy, biology, chemistry, psychology, physics, physical therapy, business and political health of health. For more information, visit usciences.edu or Twitter @USciences.