Women with asymmetrical breasts have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than others.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool, UK, conducted mammograms on 252 women who had developed this disease alongside 252 healthy individuals.
The results indicated that the risk of cancer increases by 50% for every 100 ml difference in size between the two breasts. However, the authors also warned that the risk of breast cancer depends on many other factors.
Humans, like many other vertebrates, typically have bodies divided into two symmetrical parts. However, this regular division can be disrupted by hormonal imbalances. Therefore, the researchers believe that individuals with uneven breasts may have experienced hormonal disorders, which could ultimately lead to cancer.
Lead researcher Diane Scutt stated that the average breast size of women in the study was 500 ml, making a 100 ml difference quite significant. She also added that most women have some degree of asymmetry. “Breast asymmetry should not be considered in isolation. A comprehensive assessment of her risk factors is necessary before concluding about breast cancer potential.”
Maria Leadbeater from the Breast Cancer Center commented: “There are many causes of breast asymmetry, and for many women, a slight difference is completely normal. However, if your breasts are usually symmetrical and you notice increasing asymmetry, you should see a doctor.”
M.T.
