Interesting Facts About Breast Cancer Risk: Can Lifestyle, Night Shift Work, and Sleep Affect Breast Cancer? By Dr M G Giriyappagoudar senior radiation oncologist
Breast cancer is now one of the most common cancers affecting women in India. While many people know about family history and genetics, several lesser-known lifestyle factors are increasingly being linked to breast cancer risk — including night shift work, poor sleep patterns, obesity, stress, and delayed childbirth . Understanding these hidden risk factors can help women detect breast cancer earlier and even reduce their future risk. 1. Night Shift Work and Breast Cancer – A Modern Lifestyle Risk One of the most interesting and important recent findings in cancer research is the possible link between night shift work and breast cancer. Women who frequently work: Night shifts Rotating shifts Irregular sleep schedules may have a slightly increased risk of developing breast cancer over many years. Why does this happen? Our body follows a natural biological clock called the circadian rhythm . At night, the body produces a hormone called melatonin , which helps regu...