Breast Cancer in Relation to Gynecological Risk Factors among Women in Southeast Nigeria

Background: Breast cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease that is developed by mutual impact of genetic risk factors and environmental factors. Identification of these factors may enhance the ability to prevent the disease by permitting better‑focused health education and other preventive strategies. Objectives: The objective of the study is to determine the association between breast cancer and gynecological risk factors. Methodology: One hundred and twenty consenting females who were referred from the Surgical Outpatient Department and underwent mammography in the Radiology Department of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, from 2018 to 2020. Women who were 40 years and above as well as those below 40 years with positive family history of breast cancer presenting with palpable breast mass were included in the study. Results: The mean age was 47.36 ± 10.67 years and the most frequent age range was 41–50 years while the least frequency fell in the above 70 years of age group. Women with age of menarche at 11–13 years had higher association with breast cancer than those whose menarche occurred at later age. Those who attained menopause at a later age had higher association with breast cancer. Women whose age at first confinement was 25 years or less had higher association too. Further, higher incidence of breast cancer was recorded in women with parity >3. Conclusion: No significant statistical difference was found between these gynecological risk factors as well as body mass index and breast cancer.