Question: Abortions and Breast Cancer
I have heard that having an abortion increases my risk factor for breast cancer up to 50%. Is this true?
Answer: It was once thought that perhaps abortion could increase the risk factor for breast cancer. Not just induced abortions, but spontaneous abortions and stillborn births. During pregnancy a woman's hormones fluctuate greatly. We know that these hormone level changes is what what causes change in breast tissue. So, the logical thought would be that abortion may be a factor in breast cancer development.
However, it's not the case. In 2003, over 100 breast cancer and pregnancy experts held a workshop with the National Cancer Institute to discuss the abortion - breast cancer link. The panel of experts concluded that having an induced abortion does not increase a woman's risk factor for breast cancer.
Created: 01/03/2006
References: American Cancer Society. Cancer Information and Resources; Can Having an Abortion Cause or Contribute to Breast Cancer?.
However, it's not the case. In 2003, over 100 breast cancer and pregnancy experts held a workshop with the National Cancer Institute to discuss the abortion - breast cancer link. The panel of experts concluded that having an induced abortion does not increase a woman's risk factor for breast cancer.
Created: 01/03/2006
References: American Cancer Society. Cancer Information and Resources; Can Having an Abortion Cause or Contribute to Breast Cancer?.
