Comment on research suggesting that breast feeding reduces the risk of breast cancer in women who delay childbirth, as presented at the Annual Conference of the American Association for Cancer Research.

Lisa Grosser, Breast Cancer Nurse Specialist at Breast Cancer Care said:

“This is an interesting study that follows on from earlier research in this field.

“We already know that having children at an older age can increase a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer but that the longer she breastfeeds, the more she reduces her risk.

“However it is too early to say for certain that breastfeeding negates the effects of a late pregnancy on breast cancer risk, and further studies on a larger scale are needed in this area.

“There is still much to learn about the causes of breast cancer. Age remains the biggest risk factor for the disease.”

Anyone with breast cancer or breast health concerns can get free, confidential support and information Breast Cancer Care’s helpline on 0808 800 6000 or by visiting www.breastcancercare.org.uk

Notes to editors:

. Breast Cancer Care has been working for over 30 years to make a difference in the lives of people affected by breast cancer. We provide accurate, easy to understand information as well as practical and emotional support. We are the only charity working across the UK to provide these services. Every year we receive almost two million requests for support and information through our services including our helpline, website, publications, person to person support and health promoting activities, all of which are offered free. We are committed to campaigning for better treatment and support for people with breast cancer and their families.