Are the Risk Factors of Breast Cancer among Women in Kerala different from around the globe, Need for a detailed analysis : Prospective review from a tertiary care centre Kerala

Abstract

Introduction: The incidence of breast cancer is increasing worldwide. This study aimed to assess the risk factors of breast cancer in patients reporting at our tertiary care institute with an endeavour to reduce the incidence, mortality and morbidity due to the disease, having the knowledge that risk factors may vary according to different parts of the country.Methods: A case control study was conducted in the Department of General Surgery, Government Medical College, Thrissur among 165 histologically proven female breast cancer patients (cases) and 165 females with no evidence of carcinoma breast (age matched controls). Screening was done by both clinical examination and imaging wherever necessary from April 1^st  2013 to March 31^st  2014. A private interview was set up for all cases and controls using a structured proforma for collecting data regarding risk factors. Both t- test and chi square test were used for analysis.Results: Mean age of the study population was 52 years (SD-12). Age at menarche, Menopausal status, Age at menopause, Parity, Duration of breast feeding, Breast Self-examination awareness and Physical activity showed statistically significant difference between cases and controls. Whereas, the presence of Family History of any other cancer showed no significant association with breast cancer, unlike previous studies.Conclusion: Our study shown roles for some modifiable risk factors of breast cancer that can be focused by public health intervention in local setup. The women who have one or more of the following risk factors should take the special attention to risk of breast cancer.