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New research shows breastfeeding helps prevent cancer.
For decades, the link between breastfeeding and reduced breast cancer risk was well-documented but poorly understood.
Recent breakthroughs have finally shed light on the biological mechanism behind this protection. Researchers discovered that breastfeeding induces a significant surge of specialized immune cells within breast tissue. These cells act as a localized defense system, potentially identifying and neutralizing malignant cells before they can develop into life-threatening tumors.
The impact of this natural defense is substantial, with data indicating that the risk of breast cancer—the second most common cancer worldwide—drops by 4.3 percent for every year a woman breastfeeds. These protective benefits appear to be particularly pronounced for older mothers, offering a long-term health advantage. By understanding how the body recruits these immune sentinels, scientists hope to unlock new strategies for cancer prevention and better support maternal health outcomes.
source: New Scientist. Breastfeeding causes a surge in immune cells that could prevent cancer. New Scientist Magazine.