The Impact of Lifestyle-Related Modifiable Risk Factors on Breast Cancer Incidence: A Narrative Review

Introduction: Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy among women and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Lifestyle behaviors substantially shape the risk of developing this disease. Given the increasing global burden of breast cancer, this review compiled recent evidence on modifiable lifestyle-related risk factors and emphasized their relevance to primary prevention. Methods: This narrative review included research articles published between ۲۰۱۵ and ۲۰۲۵ in Springer Nature, PubMed, Google Scholar, Wiley Online Library, and SID, searched using English and Persian keywords: "breast cancer," "lifestyle," and "modifiable risk factors." Of ۵۴ screened records, ۱۸ studies meeting predefined criteria for relevance, adult female populations, and scientific quality were included. Studies lacking clear risk estimates were excluded. Results: Evidence indicated that obesity and overweight, unhealthy dietary patterns, physical inactivity, and alcohol and tobacco use were the most influential modifiable risk factors. Regular physical activity and prolonged breastfeeding demonstrated protective effects. Limited evidence suggested associations between sleep disturbances and short-term night-shift work with increased risk. Higher age at first pregnancy, often shaped by lifestyle choices, was also associated with elevated incidence. obesity, unhealthy diet, and alcohol consumption showed the strongest associations with breast cancer risk. The strength of these associations varied according to population and study design. Conclusion: Targeted lifestyle interventions—including weight control, healthy diet, regular physical activity, and reduced alcohol and tobacco use—can substantially lower the risk of breast cancer. These findings are particularly relevant in Iran, where changing lifestyle patterns highlight the need for preventive policies and community-based health education programs.

کلیدواژه ها:

Breast cancer ، Lifestyle ، Modifiable risk factors ، Prevention