Lifestyle Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in BRCA1/2-Mutation Carriers Around Childbearing Age

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genetics
• Public Health

Background:

• BRCA1/2-mutation carriers have elevated risks for breast and ovarian cancers.
• Lifestyle factors like physical inactivity, overweight, smoking, and alcohol consumption contribute significantly to breast cancer risk in the general population.
• Limited research suggests physical activity may also influence breast cancer risk in BRCA1/2 carriers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess lifestyle factors (physical activity, overweight, smoking, alcohol use) in BRCA1/2-mutation carriers around childbearing age.
• To evaluate the impact of having children on physical inactivity and overweight status in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 268 BRCA1/2-mutation carriers (born 1968-1983) was surveyed about lifestyle 4-6 weeks post-genetic diagnosis.
• Physical inactivity was defined as <1 sports activity/week.
• Carriers were grouped by youngest child's age: no children, 0-3 years, or ≥4 years.

Main Results:

• 48% of carriers were physically inactive, 41% overweight, 27% smoked, and 70% consumed alcohol.
• Physical inactivity was 4-5 times more prevalent in carriers with children compared to those without.
• Overweight status was not significantly associated with having children.

Conclusions:

• BRCA1/2-mutation carriers with children represent a subgroup with a heightened risk of physical inactivity.
• Targeted lifestyle support for carriers with children may be beneficial for reducing breast cancer risk.
• Further research into modifiable lifestyle factors in high-risk populations is warranted.