As a woman ages, the breast's glandular tissue, the tissue in which breast cancer arises, is gradually replaced by fat. HRT includes some form of estrogen, which counteracts this process. Researchers are currently evaluating the risk of breast cancer associated with different hormone combinations. Still, HRT has certain benefits that may offset the risk of breast cancer, and each woman should discuss the pros and cons of this therapy with her doctor before deciding if it is right for her. Most doctors recommend alternatives for women who have a family history of breast cancer or have had breast cancer themselves.
Tall women are more likely than short women to develop breast cancer.
Weight also plays a role, possibly because body fat alters a woman's estrogen metabolism. Obese women are more likely than thin women to develop breast cancer after menopause. The more alcohol a woman drinks, the greater her risk. However, moderate alcohol intake may protect against other diseases and women should discuss the possible benefits of alcohol consumption with their doctors before deciding to forego alcohol completely. Several other factors are linked to breast cancer risk for reasons that are unknown.