Breast cancer and the related factors: A case control study

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy and the first cause of cancer deaths among women in the world. The present case-control study was designed to evaluate the risk factors among the patients in South Khorasan province, Iran. In a case control study, 85 patients with breast cancer who were diagnosed during 2006 and 2008 at imam Reza hospital (birjand) were compared with 85 healthy women referred to radiology departments of Vali Asr hospital (birjand). The two groups were matched by age, job and literacy. Risk factors and demographic information were collected through a review of medical records, face to face interview and completing a questionnaire after coordination with regional health care centers. The data were analyzed using SPSS software. Positive familial history of breast cancer, smoking and addiction, neglecting breast self-examination (lack of heath awareness) and painful milk secretion during breast feeding period increased the risk of developing breast cancer. Life style changes can be considered as one of the interventions which can prevent breast cancer development. Accordingly, regular breast self-examination can help in early detection of breast cancer in people with positive family history of breast cancer.