Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women worldwide. Here’s how it may be related to extreme stress.
Breast cancer is one of the most common diagnoses for women worldwide. While genetic and lifestyle factors are often discussed, the role of mental health, particularly stress, deserves more attention. Stress has somehow become an inevitable part of life. But learning to manage it is essential. Extreme stress can lead to several health complications. Chronic stress not only affects mood; It has far-reaching consequences for physical health, including a possible link to breast cancer.
Link between stress and breast cancer
Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which leads to the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, explained Dr Karishma Kirti, consultant breast specialist and oncoplastic surgeon while speaking to India. com. Prolonged activation of this system can suppress immune function, increase inflammation, and create an environment conducive to cancer development. A study published in Nature Reviews Cancer highlighted that chronic stress alters the tumor microenvironment, facilitating the growth and metastasis of cancer cells.
Stress-induced inflammation also plays a critical role. Elevated levels of inflammatory markers, such as cytokines, have been associated with an increased risk of cancer. Research published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention revealed that women with persistently high stress levels had elevated inflammatory biomarkers, which correlated with a higher incidence of breast cancer.
How does stress become a risk factor?
Stress often drives unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise, all of which are known risk factors for breast cancer. Additionally, a report published in Psycho-Oncology found that women who experienced high levels of stress were less likely to adhere to cancer screening guidelines, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
For breast cancer patients, stress can affect recovery and survival rates. A meta-analysis published in The Lancet Oncology showed that breast cancer patients with better mental health had higher survival rates and responded better to treatment compared to those who experienced severe anxiety or depression.
While stress is not a direct cause of breast cancer, its influence on biological processes and lifestyle choices highlights the need for a holistic approach to prevention and treatment. Addressing mental health through psychological support, stress management programs and community interventions could play a critical role in improving outcomes for women at risk for or living with breast cancer.
