Modifiable Risk Factors for Breast Cancer: Insights From Systematic Reviews

To conduct a comprehensive review of reversible factors associated with breast cancer, with the aim of offering insights for the creation of early intervention strategies for breast cancer prevention.

The PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus databases were systematically searched to collect systematic reviews and meta-analyses related to breast cancer risk. Searches were limited to literature published from the inception of each database up to May 1, 2024. Two investigators independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed the methodological quality and evidence synthesis of the studies included in our review.

We included 31 systematic reviews in our analysis, and breast cancer risk factors were divided into four categories: diet and lifestyle habits, reproductive and familial factors, body weight and physical activity, and environmental and miscellaneous factors.

Our findings suggest that a high-fat diet, low intake of dietary fiber, alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity are linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Conversely, physical activity and breastfeeding appear to lower breast cancer risk. However, the methodological and evidence quality of the reviewed studies was generally low, necessitating caution in the application of these findings. Additionally, there is a need for more research into lifestyle interventions to better develop and advocate for effective breast cancer prevention strategies.