Recent findings from researchers at University College London suggest that breast enlargement during pregnancy may be linked to an elevated cancer risk in women who are over 35 at the time of childbirth. The study is reported in Nature Communications, a scientific journal that is part of the Nature family of publications.
In their analysis, the researchers examined genetic mutations in breast cells from 29 participants. The team observed larger clusters of mutated cells in women over 35 who were experiencing their first pregnancy. While these mutated cell clusters are not themselves cancerous, they may develop into cancer with a noted 30% probability in the future. Experts indicate that the heightened risk could persist for roughly five to ten years following pregnancy.
The scientists explain that cellular mutations accumulate with age, and breast tissue is not immune to this process. Delayed first pregnancy appears to intensify this effect, because the breast tissue enlarges and atypical cells can emerge alongside healthy cells. The risk profile may be different for women who already have children and are breastfeeding, potentially balancing the overall risk.
The authors also highlight that the results open possibilities for new breast cancer screening approaches. They envision future tests that track biochemical signals released by mutated cells, enabling detection through a blood test. If successful, such tests could provide a noninvasive way to monitor at-risk individuals.
Researchers emphasize that cancer incidence trends are complex and may vary across age groups. While the study focuses on a specific scenario, it contributes to the broader understanding of how reproductive factors may intersect with genetic changes in breast tissue.
Overall, the work underscores the importance of ongoing research into early detection methods and the ways age and reproductive history can influence breast cancer risk, calibration of screening guidelines, and personalized risk assessment. The evolving landscape of cancer research continues to pursue clearer indicators and accessible testing options that can benefit people across different age ranges and backgrounds.