Epidemiology and risk factors for breast cancer: a literature review

Abstract

A brief context: Breast cancer is the malignant neoplasm that most affects and kills women worldwide. The incidence and mortality rates of this important form of cancer grow year after year in a linear fashion. Despite numerous advances in science and technology in basic and clinical research, breast cancer remains an important global public health problem. Guiding question: Currently, we understand that breast cancer is a multifactorial disease, therefore, greater recognition of risk factors is important for its prevention. General objective: The main objective of this narrative review article was to discuss the factors that influence and contribute to the initiation, maintenance and progression of breast cancer. Methodology: In this work, we identified scientific articles through the “PubMed” database. The search terms “breast cancer” were used in combination with specific terms covering the different epidemiological patterns and factors that favor or prevent this malignancy, as appropriate. Main results: The following text describes epidemiological data at the global and national level (Brazil) and the main modifiable (physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, smoking, number of pregnancies, diet and long-term pharmacological interventions) and non-modifiable risk factors (age, sex, ethnicity, exposure to endogenous steroid hormones, benign proliferative lesions in the mammary gland, and genetic predisposition) to breast cancer. Conclusion: This work consists of a brief review of the epidemiology and risk factors for breast cancer, serving as a quick consultation tool for the multidisciplinary health team and for all women, especially those at higher risk of developing this disease, since many risk factors are preventable.