Question: I took the Pill for many years and have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. Is it possible there is a connection?
Dr. Hibberd’s answer:
I assume you mean birth control pills or postmenopausal hormone supplements. In fact, there is an association between birth control pills and a risk for benign breast disorder and ovarian tumor development — but only while a woman is taking them.
The American Cancer Society states: "Women who use birth control pills or an injectable form of birth control (such as Depo-Provera) do have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer than those who have never used them. This risk seems to go back to normal over time once the hormones are stopped
"Using estrogen and progesterone hormones after menopause increases the risk of getting breast cancer. This risk seems to go back to normal over time once the hormones are stopped.”
The use of birth control pills or postmenopausal hormonal supplementation will accelerate the growth of existing breast cancers. That’s why they are not usually recommended for those with breast cancer.
But there are many other risks to consider for breast cancer prevention. For more details, the American Cancer Society provides a terrific overview guide online.
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