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BODY WEIGHT

Women who are overweight have a higher risk for breast cancer. There is evidence that weight gained during adulthood adds to the risk for breast cancer later in life.

The link between body weight and breast cancer risk becomes even more pronounced after menopause. This connection is believed to be caused by exposure to greater levels of the hormone estrogen, which is linked to higher breast cancer risk. After menopause, most of the body's estrogen is produced in fat tissue, so a woman who has more fat is exposed to more of the hormone.

Maintaining a healthy body weight may have other benefits in addition to lowering the risk for breast cancer. Healthy body weight is also associated with lower risk for other conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, and other types of cancer.

Reaching or maintaining a healthy body weight may require a combination of changes in your diet, physical activity, and other behaviours. If you do not know your recommended body weight, it may be helpful to speak to your doctor.