Breastfeeding is known to have a myriad of benefits for mothers and their babies. We've all heard that breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for infants and toddlers, but did you know that breastfeeding can also have positive health benefits for women? In addition to lowering a mother’s risk for type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, breastfeeding can also lower a mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancers. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we're highlighting five facts about breastfeeding and breast cancer you might not have known about. 

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Reduced Risk: Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. Women who breastfeed for a longer duration, especially for a total of one year or more over their lifetime, tend to have a lower risk of developing breast cancer compared to those who do not breastfeed or breastfeed for shorter periods.

Protective Measure: The protective effect of breastfeeding against breast cancer is believed to be related to hormonal changes that occur during lactation. Breastfeeding can lead to delayed menstruation and decreased estrogen exposure, which can help reduce the risk of certain breast cancers.

Timing Matters: The protective effect of breastfeeding appears to be more pronounced when it starts at a younger age and when the cumulative duration of breastfeeding is longer. Starting breastfeeding at an early age and breastfeeding multiple children can have a more significant impact on reducing breast cancer risk.

Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Research suggests that breastfeeding may have a particularly strong protective effect against triple-negative breast cancer, which is an aggressive and harder-to-treat form of the disease.

Long-Term Benefits: The benefits of breastfeeding in terms of breast cancer risk reduction may extend beyond the lactation period. Some studies suggest that the protective effect can persist for years after a woman has stopped breastfeeding.

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It's important to note that while breastfeeding can be a protective factor, it is not a guarantee against breast cancer, and other risk factors and genetic predispositions also play a role in the development of the disease. Regular breast cancer screening and early detection remain crucial for all women, regardless of their breastfeeding history. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and MLM Brand will proudly donate 5% of this month's sales to Bright Pink. Bright Pink focuses its assets on maximizing the impact of investments made through its venture philanthropy fund by deepening the reach and impact of the most cutting-edge interventions in order to reduce disparities and save more lives from breast and ovarian cancer.