Personality does not sway breast cancer

Jan 30, 2008

Study shows no link between personality traits and breast cancer risk.

A woman's personality doesn't affect her odds of developing breast cancer, says researchers report.

The findings may reassure patients that "their personality appears to have played no role in the development of their breast cancer," write They studied some 9,700 women aged 43 and older.

When the study began, none of the women had breast cancer. They completed personality surveys about traits including anxiety, anger, depression, optimism, and the ability to express emotions. They also answered questions about their breast cancer risk factors.

The women were followed for 13 years. During that time, 217 women were diagnosed with breast cancer.

The researchers found no personality differences between women who were and weren't diagnosed with breast cancer. "Personality factors were not associated with the development of breast cancer"

About two years ago, another European study showed no link between personality and the odds of developing any type of cancer - not just breast cancer. That study appeared in the Jan. 24, 2005, edition of Cancer.