How extreme stress is linked with breast cancer risk?

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, in someway of  the other has become an inevitable part of lives. But learning to manage it is essential. Extreme stress can lead to several health complications. Chronic stress does not only affect one’s mood; it has far-reaching consequences on physical health, including a potential link to breast cancer.

Stress and breast cancer link

Stress activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, leading to the release of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, By Dr. Karishma Kirti, Consultant Breast Specialist and Oncoplastic Surgeon explained while speaking with 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 cancer cell growth and metastasis.

Stress-induced inflammation also plays a critical role. High levels of inflammatory markers, such as cytokines, have been associated with increased cancer risk. Research published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention revealed that women with persistently high stress levels had elevated inflammatory biomarkers, correlating with a higher incidence of breast cancer.

How stress becomes 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. Moreover, a report in Psycho-Oncology found that women experiencing high levels of stress were less likely to adhere to cancer screening guidelines, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

For breast cancer patients, stress can impact recovery and survival rates. A meta-analysis published in The Lancet Oncology demonstrated that breast cancer patients with better mental health had higher survival rates and responded better to treatment compared to those experiencing 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-based interventions could play a pivotal role in improving outcomes for women at risk of or living with breast cancer.