Many studies have found that taller women have an increased risk of breast cancer [43]. One pooled analysis of seven prospective studies found that women over 5'3" have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer than women under 5'3" [170]. One reason for this increase may be the growth spurt that tall women can have in their youth. Such growth spurts may occur due to higher levels of hormones or other growth factors. Growth spurts can allow damage to happen in breast cells that can lead to cancer later in life.
Learn more about estrogen and breast cancer risk.
Updated 11/10/09
