The 2015 NICE guidelines for menopause diagnosis and management focusses on Women between the age of 50-59 and examines their risk of developing Breast Cancer. The guidelines highlight the following points regarding breast cancer risk and obesity.
1. Baseline Population Risk: In the general population the risk of breast cancer increases with certain factors. The guidelines emphasise the specific risk posed by obesity.
2. Obesity and Breast Cancer Risk: Women living with obesity (with a BMI of 30 or higher) have a higher baseline risk of developing breast cancer compared to women with a ‘normal’ BMI. This increased risk is attributed to higher levels of endogenous estrogen produced by adipose tissue.
3. Clinical Implications: The guidelines underline the importance of recognising obesity as a significant risk factor for breast cancer. They advocate for weight management and healthy lifestyle changes as part of overall breast cancer risk reduction strategies.
In summary, the NICE guidelines highlight that obesity is an independent risk factor for breast cancer, emphasising the need for weight management and healthy living to reduce this risk.
