Risk Factors Associated with Breast Cancer among Women in Roi Et Province

Abstract

Purposes:  To study the risk factors associated with breast cancer among women in Roi Et province.

Study design: Case-Control Study.

Material and Methods : The study population comprised women aged over 40 years who underwent proactive breast cancer screening and were subsequently diagnosed with breast cancer, with the diagnosis confirmed by pathological examination. The data collection form consisted of general information and a risk factor assessment form for breast cancer. The study was conducted from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, univariable analysis, and multivariable analysis. Multivariable analysis was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (OR Adj) to identify risk factors associated with breast cancer. The results were presented as adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI). A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Main finding: Factors associated with the development of breast cancer among at-risk women in Roi Et Province were identified through analysis adjusted for age. The results showed that women with abnormal differences in breast size had a 3.70-fold increased risk (95%CI: 2.134–6.422). Those who used oral contraceptives had a 1.96-fold increased risk (95%CI: 1.286–2.987), and women with nipple retraction and abnormal nipple coloration had a 1.66-fold increased risk (95%CI: 0.762–3.613).

Conclusion and recommendations: The findings from this study on factors associated with the development of breast cancer among at-risk women in Roi Et Province indicate that women who were found to have abnormal differences in breast size, those who used oral contraceptives, and those who exhibited nipple retraction and abnormal nipple coloration were at increased risk of developing breast cancer. These results highlight the importance of targeted screening in these high-risk groups.