Does breast hyperplasia lead to breast cancer?

Aug 18, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

During a physical examination, I was diagnosed with mammary hyperplasia. Doctor, I would like to know if mammary hyperplasia can lead to breast cancer?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Qi Zhirong

Breast hyperplasia generally does not lead to breast cancer.

There is no direct relationship between breast hyperplasia and breast cancer. Breast hyperplasia is a common benign breast condition, representing a normal physiological response of breast tissue to the cyclical stimulation of estrogen and progesterone. It mainly manifests as breast lumps and pain, and is not a true pathological lesion. Although in rare cases, some types of breast hyperplasia may involve atypical hyperplasia or progress to carcinoma in situ, such situations are uncommon, and the likelihood of progression to invasive breast cancer is even lower. Breast cancer, on the other hand, is a malignant tumor, and its development may be related to multiple factors including genetic predisposition, hormone levels, and age.

Although breast hyperplasia itself does not directly transform into breast cancer, patients with breast hyperplasia should perform regular breast self-examinations and professional examinations to promptly detect and address any potential abnormalities. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, engaging in moderate exercise, and avoiding excessive stress, is very helpful in preventing breast cancer.