Determinants of Breast Cancer Among Women in Southern Pakistan: Evidence from a Hospital-Based Case–Control Study

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is a significant global health issue in women, and its prevalence is on the increase in low- and middle-income nations. Although breast cancer is becoming a burden, the data on the possible risk factors in Pakistan is scarce.

Objective: To establish the relationship between demographic, reproductive, lifestyle, and familial variables and frequency of breast cancer in women in South Punjab, Pakistan.

Methods: A case-control study was carried out in a hospital in 104 cases (breast cancer cases) and 127 control (healthy age-matched women) in Multan, D.G. Khan, and Bahawalpur divisions. A validated structured questionnaire was used to gather data on socio-demographics, reproductive history, lifestyle factors, and medical history. Chi-square tests and multivariate logistic regression were used to test the associations between variables and breast cancer.

Results: Women aged 41–55 years had significantly higher risk of breast cancer (OR=6.34, 95% CI: 1.41–28.5, p=0.016). Oral contraceptive use (OR=2.12, 95% CI: 1.07–4.20, p=0.031) and history of breast infection/treatment (OR=4.28, 95% CI: 2.05–8.95, p<0.001) were strong independent risk factors. Moderate predictors were iron deficiency anemia (OR=1.87, 95% CI: 1.01344, p=0.045) and lower levels of education.

Conclusion: These results present a need to include specific awareness, early screening programs, and preventive interventions in current public health programs to decrease the burden of breast cancer among women in South Punjab, Pakistan.