Health aNd Fitness Guide

Women who live in cities have denser breast tissues compared to those who live in rural areas, and therefore are at greater risk of developing breast cancer, according to a study based on 972 women living in and around London.

For every 1 per cent increase in breast density, there is said to be a 2 per cent increase in the relative risk of developing breast cancer, said study author Dr Nicholas Perry of the London Breast Institute at the Princess Grace Hospital. The close to urban and high population densities that a woman resides, and in particular works, the greater likelihood there is that she will have denser breasts. The researchers feel that air pollution and stress of city life could add to the risk. The study highlights the importance of screening in all women, especially urban women.