What cancers does breastfeeding reduce?

The Protective Power of Breastfeeding Against Cancer
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers. Among these benefits, a significant reduction in the risk of certain cancers stands out, particularly breast and ovarian cancers. Research indicates that breastfeeding not only supports the healthy development of infants but also plays a crucial role in cancer prevention for mothers.
Breast Cancer Risk Reduction
Numerous studies have established a clear link between breastfeeding and a decreased risk of breast cancer. For every 12 months a woman breastfeeds, her risk of developing breast cancer decreases by approximately 4.3%. This protective effect is particularly pronounced in women who breastfeed before menopause, as they experience a lower incidence of the disease compared to those who do not breastfeed. The mechanism behind this reduction is thought to involve the higher turnover of breast tissue during lactation, which allows for the replacement of potentially damaged cells.
Moreover, the cumulative effect of breastfeeding is significant. Women who breastfeed for longer durations not only benefit from the immediate protective effects but also contribute to a lower overall risk of breast cancer throughout their lives. This is particularly important in high-income countries where breastfeeding rates have been declining, leading to increased breast cancer risks among women who delay childbirth.
Ovarian Cancer and Breastfeeding
In addition to breast cancer, breastfeeding has also been associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer. A comprehensive review of over 40 studies revealed that women who breastfed experienced a 30% reduction in the risk of developing ovarian cancer compared to those who did not breastfeed. This reduction is believed to be linked to the hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding, which result in fewer ovulatory cycles. Fewer cycles of ovulation may lower the risk of cellular mutations that can lead to ovarian cancer.
Conclusion
The evidence is compelling: breastfeeding serves as a powerful ally in the fight against certain cancers, particularly breast and ovarian cancers. By promoting breastfeeding, healthcare providers can not only enhance infant health but also significantly contribute to the long-term health of mothers. As awareness of these benefits grows, it becomes increasingly important to support and encourage breastfeeding practices in communities worldwide.

Does breastfeeding reduce the risk of cervical cancer?

This study found that breastfeeding experience and a longer breastfeeding duration are associated with reduced risk of breast, thyroid, and cervical cancer in Korean women. It can be used as a basis for encouraging breastfeeding, and suggests further research on modifiable factors that reduce cancer risks.

What type of cancer does breastfeeding prevent?

The risk of breast cancer is reduced by 4.3% for every 12 months of breastfeeding, this is in addition to the 7.0% decrease in risk observed for each birth. Breastfeeding reduces the risk of Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer (20%) and in carriers of BRCA1 mutations (22–55%).

Are breastfed babies less likely to develop cancer?

Lactation protects the mother against breast cancer. Having been breastfed protects children against excess weight gain and overweight and obesity. In turn, this acts to reduce the risk of those cancers for which weight gain and overweight and obesity are a cause.

Does giving birth reduce breast cancer risk?

Women who give birth to their first child at age 35 or younger tend to have a decreased risk of breast cancer [10-14]. Breast cancer risk is increased for about 10 years after a first birth [11]. After that, women who give birth tend to have a lower risk of breast cancer than women who never give birth [11].

What percentage does breastfeeding reduce breast cancer?

“This awareness is vital so mothers can ask for and get the support they need- especially when breastfeeding is challenging.” One of every eight women in the U.S. is diagnosed with breast cancer. Mothers who breastfeed for more than a year cut their risk of breast cancer by 26%.

What are 5 ways to prevent breast cancer?

8IGHTWAYS® to Prevent Breast Cancer

• These 8 simple steps can help prevent breast cancer.
• Keep Weight in Check.
• Be Physically Active.
• Eat Your Fruits & Vegetables and Limit Alcohol (Zero is Best)
• Don’t Smoke.
• Breastfeed, if Possible.
• Avoid Birth Control Pills, Particularly After Age 35 or If You Smoke.

How long to breastfeed to reduce cancer?

Breastfeed for at least six months
Evidence shows that the health benefits and your cancer risk reduction become significant at six months and beyond.

Is breast milk healthy for my husband?

However, drinking breast milk is safe only if it is from your partner whom you know well. This is because breast milk is a bodily fluid, and you do not want yourself to be at risk of infectious diseases such as cytomegalovirus, hepatitis B and C, human immunodeficiency virus, or syphilis.

Does breastfeeding reduce the risk of ovarian cancer?

Breastfeeding was associated with a 24% lower risk of invasive ovarian cancer (odds ratio [OR], 0.76; 95% CI, 0.71-0.80). Independent of parity, ever having breastfed was associated with reduction in risk of all invasive ovarian cancers, particularly high-grade serous and endometrioid cancers.

What are breastfed babies less at risk for?

Infants who are breastfed have reduced risk of:
Asthma. Severe lower respiratory disease. Obesity.