Risk factors for breast cancer in Juiz de Fora (MG): a case-control study

Abstract

The main risk factor (RF) for the occurence of breast cancer (BC) is old age, although endogenous and exogenous hormones factors, heredity, diet and sociodemographic factors are interrelated in the aetiology of BC. Our aim was to analyse the risk factors for BC in women of our region. Eighty consecutive cases and 76 age-matched controls were interviewed, from September 2000 until May 2001. The collected data was analysed by chi-squared test and than by the logistic regression model. Living at the countryside was the most significant risk variable (p=0,0016) and having had four or more children seemed to be a protection factor (p=0,0094). We conclude that for women of our region, the fact to live in countryside is associated with a greater risk for developing BC. Having had four or more children, on the other side, is a protection factor.