Birth control pills linked to small increase in risk of breast cancer, study shows

(FOX NEWS) - Modern birth control pills that are lower in estrogen modestly raise the risk of breast cancer, especially with long-term use, a Danish study found.

Researchers discovered a similar breast cancer risk with the progestin-only intrauterine device, and they could not rule out a risk for other hormonal contraceptives like patches and implants.

However, the overall increased risk was small, amounting to one extra case of breast cancer among 77,000 women using contraceptives per year.

Experts warned women should balance the study's findings against the benefits of the pill, which includes a lower risk of other cancers.

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