In a recent clinical study, women were asked what they thought the level of risk was to them of developing either Coronary artery disease or Breast cancer. These were their answers:

  • Coronary artery disease: Perceived risk 4%; Actual risk 50%
  • Breast cancer: Perceived risk 46%; Actual risk 4% (almost opposite)

We will shortly be publishing more information and suggesting why this level of mis-perception is so high.

Lifestyle risks

In another clinical study on breast cancer, it was found that for every 1,000 women (UK general population) aged between 50-59, there were:

12 cases of women developing breast cancer over the next five years.

  • For women who drink two or more units of alcohol per day there were 3 extra cases.
  • For women who are current smokers there was 1 extra case.
  • For women who are overweight or obese (BMI equal or greater than 30) 17 extra cases.
  • For women who take at least 2.5 hours of moderate exercise per week 5 fewer cases.

See our section on A Healthy Menopause.

What are your thoughts on women’s mis-perception of risk? Leave us a comment below: