Teenage smoking may increase breast cancer risk 

Girls who smoke in their early teens might increase their risk of developing cancer by up to 70%, researchers warn today. But early tobacco use appears to be a factor in increasing the threat of developing the disease only before women undergo the menopause.

The researchers say their findings suggest that developing breast tissue is more sensitive to cancer-causing chemicals. About 11% of British girls aged 11 to 15 claim to be regular smokers and the findings of the Canadian study published in the Lancet medical journal will add to the mounting concern about tobacco consumption by girls around puberty.

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