Which of the following is considered a minor risk factor for breast cancer?

Not breastfeeding is considered a minor risk factor for breast cancer because, while it is associated with an increased risk, its impact is relatively less significant compared to other factors. Research indicates that women who do not breastfeed may have a slightly higher risk of developing breast cancer, likely due to hormonal influences that breastfeeding can help regulate. However, the correlation does not suggest a strong causal relationship and is not as prominent as other risk factors.

In contrast, early menstruation, previous breast cancer history, and genetic mutations are significantly stronger risk factors. Early menstruation contributes to a longer exposure to estrogen, which can elevate cancer risk. A history of previous breast cancer indicates that an individual may have an existing predisposition to developing cancer again. Genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, are among the most influential risk factors, dramatically increasing the likelihood of breast cancer development. These factors are more closely linked to the biology of cancer and therefore carry greater importance when assessing individual risk.