Cambridge and UBC study finds menopause alters breast cancer risk
Technology
A major new study from the University of Cambridge and the University of British Columbia has found that as women age, especially around menopause, their breast tissue goes through changes that can raise the risk of cancer.
Researchers analyzed millions of cells from women ages 15 to 86, hoping these insights will help improve early screening and prevention.
Aging shifts breast tissue composition
The study found that aging leads to fewer breast cells, slower cell division, less milk-producing tissue, and more fat cells, all of which make it easier for cancer to develop.
Lower estrogen levels during menopause also weaken the structure of breast tissue.
Mapping these changes could help improve future screening and prevention.