Risk factors in breast cancer

Risk factors for breast cancer

“…EDITOR,—Peter J Lewis comments on the fact that our article on risk factors for breast cancer did not include the role of xeno-oestrogens and progesterone deficiency 1. The aim of the ABC series is to review the current state of knowledge succinctly.…”

Risk factors for breast cancer

“…EDITOR,—In their reply to my letter on risk factors for breast cancer1 McPherson and colleagues entirely miss the crucial difference between natural progesterone and progestogens 2. To quote from my original letter: “synthetic progestogens have very different effects on the body from progesterone itself.” As the administration of progestogens results in a lowering of serum progesterone concentrations I entirely agree that giving progestogens to women at high risk of breast cancer is potentially hazardous.…”