Not breastfeeding is categorized as what type of breast cancer risk factor?

Not breastfeeding is categorized as a minor breast cancer risk factor. While several factors contribute to breast cancer risk, not breastfeeding is acknowledged within the context of reproductive history. Research indicates that women who do not breastfeed may have a slightly elevated risk of developing breast cancer compared to those who do. This risk factor is considered minor because the association is not as strong or impactful as other risk factors such as genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2), age at menarche, age at first live birth, and family history of breast cancer.

Other factors that weigh more heavily include those related to genetic predisposition and hormonal influences. Therefore, while not breastfeeding does contribute to an increased risk, it is not deemed significant enough to classify it as a major or significant risk factor in most assessments of breast cancer risk.