Breastfeeding is a natural, beneficial, and recommended practice for newborns, providing them with essential nutrients and antibodies for healthy growth and development. Beyond its immediate benefits for infants, breastfeeding also offers numerous advantages for mothers, including a reduced risk of developing breast cancer.
As we take the final lap in commemorating the Breast cancer awareness month, Nutrition Action Zimbabwe continuously recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, with continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond. Research has consistently demonstrated a protective effect of breastfeeding on breast cancer risk.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that breastfeeding for six months or longer was associated with a 10percent reduction in the risk of developing breast cancer compared to women who did not breastfeed. This protective effect is believed to be due to hormonal changes that occur during lactation, which can help regulate cell growth and prevent the formation of tumors in the breast tissue.
Breastfeeding alters hormone levels, reducing estrogen and progesterone exposure, which can contribute to breast cancer. It also promotes cell differentiation, making breast cells less susceptible to cancerous changes. The American Cancer Society estimates that breastfeeding can reduce breast cancer risk by 20-30 percent for women who breastfeed for 12-24 months or more.
Through breastfeeding, women are not only promoting the wellbeing of their children, but they can reduce their overall risk of developing breast cancer and mitigate the impact of this disease on their health and well-being. It is however important to note that while breastfeeding can be a protective factor against breast cancer, it is not a guarantee of complete immunity from the disease. Other factors such as genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences also play a role in determining an individual’s risk of developing breast cancer.
Breastfeeding plays a significant role in preventing breast cancer by reducing the risk of developing this disease in women. By promoting and supporting breastfeeding, we can help empower women to take control of their health and well-being.