Recent insights into cigarette smoking as a lifestyle risk factor for breast cancer

There have been many cohort studies published reviewing the epidemiological evidence that links breast cancer to cigarette smoking, yet the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown and research studies are few and incomplete. Although cohort studies are important in establishing a connection between breast cancer and cigarette smoking, basic science research is necessary to prove the relationship and to highlight potential interventions and drug targets that can be used to manage the disease. This subject has been controversial for many decades; however, there has been a recent resurgence in interest because of the widespread acknowledgment of the role lifestyle choices play in cancer development and progression. This review will detail the current statistics associated with cigarette smoking and discuss recent cohort and basic research studies that highlight the association of cigarette smoking and breast cancer initiation and progression.