The Relationship between Reproductive Factors and Risk of Breast Cancer among Pre –Menopausal Women

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women and the first cause of death among the women. Women who develop breast cancer in the pre- menopausal years are more likely to have a higher tumor grade. Aim: to assess the relationship between reproductive factor and risk of breast cancer among premenopausal women. Design: A descriptive study design was utilized. Setting: was conducted at outpatient clinics and inpatient department in oncology institute . Subjects: Purposive sample of 100 women diagnosed with breast cancer. Tools: Two tools were used. Tool I : A structured interviewing questionnaire including two parts to assess (demographic data, women health history) . Tool II :Assessment of reproductive risk factors: such as age of menarche, age at first pregnancy ,abortion , degree of consanguinity , using post-menopausal hormonal therapy. Result: More than half of them were previously diagnosed with breast cancer breast . Regarding reproductive risk factors ,it was found that, two third of them were using contraceptive pills , majority of them had their menarche age from (12-24) years and half of them had their first pregnancy at age from (20-30) years , less than three quarter of them were overweight, more than two third of them are first degree consanguinity, more than three quarter of them used post-menopausal hormone therapy. Conclusion: There was evidence of differing relationship between obstetrical factors, and risk of premenopausal breast cancer . Recommendation: Implementing education programs to enhance awareness regarding reproductive risk factors associated with breast cancer.