Environmental and chemical risk factors for breast cancer

Abstract

In Nigeria, breast cancer (BC) is currently the leading cause of cancer mortality, accounting for approximately 23% of all cancer diagnoses and 18% of all cancer deaths. Although the fundamental etiology of BC is still unknown, a number of risk factors, including age, lifestyle, menarche, menopause, and environmental exposures, among others, have been linked to the disease. There is mounting evidence that hazardous compounds that are part of our everyday environment are important risk variables. Exposure to these BC-predisposing chemicals happens through the items we use, the food we eat, the air we breathe, and the water we drink. Mostly, these are endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) capable of mimicking hormones such as estrogen and progesterone with links to BC initiation and progression. EDCs, which include bisphenol A, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane, and polychlorinated biphenyls, among others, can be found in everyday items including plastic and metal containers, cosmetics, detergents, and insecticides. In addition, exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are formed during the burning of organic materials and fuel, is another significant risk factor for BC. While BC initiation and pathogenesis are multifaceted with links to various contributing risk factors, a deeper understanding of the environmental and chemical conundrum will aid mitigating and prevention initiatives in Nigeria and elsewhere.