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How do you get Fibrocystic Breast Disease?

Fibrocystic breast disease is related to the way breast tissue reacts to monthly changes in the levels of estrogen and progesterone. These are female hormones produced by the ovaries during a woman's reproductive years. The changes in hormone levels cause breast tissue to alternately swell and return to normal during each menstrual cycle. Milk glands and ducts in breast tissue enlarge and the breasts retain water. This enlarging can be referred to as engorgement. Swelling in the breasts usually decreases after a woman’s menstrual period.

As a result of this regular action of estrogen and progesterone, breast tissue can become more firm. Women may experience breast pain as a result of the enlargement of the milk glands. Sometimes, packets of fluid called cysts may form in obstructed or enlarged milk ducts.

Diets that are high in salt and saturated fats are thought to have a role in fibrocystic breast disease. Caffeine from coffee, black tea, colas and chocolate may also be a factor.

Women who are at a higher risk for fibrocystic breast disease include those who:

• experience menstrual abnormalities
• do not have children or had their first child late
• are not taking oral contraceptives
• reached sexual maturity early
• have late menopause
• have a family history of breast disease, especially in mother or sisters smoke
• eat a diet high in fat
• drink alcohol more than 3 times a week

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