Abstract:
Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the world. Its incidence in
Kenya is increasing. Factors associated with breast cancer have been studied
elsewhere. There, exists a knowledge gap on the factors associated with the
disease in Kenya.
An age-matched case control study was carried out with the aim of determining
factors associated with breast cancer in female patients at Kenyatta National
Hospital in 2008. Cases were adult female breast cancer patients. Controls
were adult female non-breast cancer patients.
Sixty four cases and sixty four controls were interviewed. Using univariate
analysis, having primary or no formal education (mOR = 0.40), having the first
conception at or before age 24 (mOR = 0.31), attaining menopause at age 49 or
earlier (mOR = 0.10), and having 36 or less years of fertility (mOR = 0.09)
were associated with a reduced chance of having breast cancer. Being
overweight (BMI ≥ 25) (mOR = 6.60) or being in formal occupation (mOR =
5.00) were associated with an increased chance of having breast cancer.
The following factors were significantly associated with breast cancer in
logistic regression: having regular monthly menstrual cycles (mOR = 19.24),
having menstrual cycles of 28 days or less (mOR = 12.91), having conceived 3
times or less (mOR = 16.08), attaining menarche by age 14 (mOR = 9.39) and
residing in a rural setting (mOR = 16.43).
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There is need to revise and disseminate policy guidelines for women breast
cancer health education, screening, care and treatment. Health workers should
be updated on the factors found to be associated with breast cancer so as to
enrich targeted screening. Escalating health education of women could advance
early diagnosis.
