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In 2018, the predicted number of new breast cancers in 28 European Union (EU) countries was 404 920, with estimated age-adjusted annual incidence of breast cancer of 144.9/100 000 and mortality of 32.9/100 000, with 98 755 predicted deaths [1]. Worldwide, there was about 2.1 million newly diagnosed female breast cancer cases in 2018, accounting for almost one in four cancer cases among women, and 630 000 died of it [2]. Breast cancer incidence has increased since the introduction of mammography screening and continues to grow with the ageing of the population.

The most important risk factors include: genetic predisposition, exposure to oestrogens [endogenous and exogenous, including long-term hormone replacement therapy (HRT)], ionising radiation, low parity, high breast density and a history of atypical hyperplasia. The Western-style diet, obesity and the consumption of alcohol also contribute to …