Features related to breast cancer in an entire Argentine rural population

Anticancer Res. 2014 Oct;34(10):5537-42.

Abstract

Aim: A descriptive study was developed in an entire Argentine rural community considering breast cancer risk factors, preventive strategies and breast cancer incidence.

Patients and methods: the study comprised of 83 women. A questionnaire of 34 items was employed; a mammogram and a breast ultrasound were performed. ANOVA and Pearson correlation were employed.

Results: Mean age was 54.5 years; 69% of women were postmenopausal; 96% had children; breastfeeding was X=10 months/child; Body Mass Index (BMI) was X=27.8 kg/m(2); 13% had first-degree relatives with breast cancer; 90% of women considered mammographic screening a necessary study. One woman had presented breast cancer. Argentine screening guidelines were not followed and an inverse relationship between education level and age of first mammogram was found (p<0.05). Mammographic and ultrasound studies did not reveal potential abnormalities.

Conclusion: Peculiar social and cultural characteristics may be relevant to evaluate breast cancer risk factors in Argentina.

Keywords: Argentina; Breast cancer; mammogram; risk factors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Argentina / epidemiology
  • Breast Neoplasms / epidemiology*
  • Breast Neoplasms / prevention & control*
  • Early Detection of Cancer
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Mammography
  • Mass Screening
  • Risk Factors
  • Rural Population*