All of the following increase the risk of breast cancer, except one?

Appeared in: Raj. CHO -2020

Explanation

Sexual relations with multiple partners is not a recognized risk factor for breast cancer.
This factor is strongly associated with an increased risk of acquiring Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
Persistent infection with high-risk HPV strains is the primary cause of cervical cancer, not breast cancer.

Option A: Late menopause (e.g., after age 55) is a well-established risk factor for breast cancer.
Option B: Excessive weight, or obesity, increases the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer because adipose tissue produces estrogen.
Option D: Lack of physical exercise is a modifiable risk factor for breast cancer, as regular activity helps maintain a healthy weight and regulate hormone levels.

Visual 1: Infographic: A side-by-side comparison of the primary risk factors for breast cancer (hormonal, genetic, lifestyle) versus cervical cancer (primarily HPV infection).

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of risk factors for breast cancer as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a key role in patient education regarding cancer prevention. It's vital to provide accurate information on modifiable risk factors such as weight management, physical activity, and alcohol consumption.
It is also important to differentiate risk factors for various cancers to ensure patients receive appropriate screening recommendations (e.g., mammograms for breast cancer vs. Pap/HPV tests for cervical cancer).
What if? If a patient asks if their partner's sexual history affects their breast cancer risk, the nurse should clarify that breast cancer is not sexually transmitted, but explain the relevance of sexual history for cervical cancer screening and HPV prevention.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core subject of the question, which is 'risk factors for breast cancer'.
Note the keyword 'except'. This means you are looking for the option that is NOT a risk factor.
Evaluate each option against your knowledge of breast cancer etiology.
Option A (Late Menopause): Recall that prolonged estrogen exposure increases risk. This is a risk factor.
Option B (Excessive weight): Recall that fat cells produce estrogen. This is a risk factor.
Option C (Multiple partners): Recall that this is linked to HPV and cervical cancer. This is likely the exception.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full Raj. CHO -2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.