Female breast cancer in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT): a review of new research

Abstract

Aim Review new research to understand better the reported higher rates of breast cancer in the ACT, Australia. Methods Results of two studies published in 2010 were reviewed.1,2 Rates of breast cancer and risk factors were compared with national figures. Results ACT females had a higher rate of breast cancer, with an age-standardised incidence of 129.6 cases per 100 000 women for 2002–2006, compared with the national averageof113 per 100 000. However, for most years, this higher incidence was not statistically significant. Participation in BreastScreen was similar to the national rate. Breast cancers detected by screening were likely to be smaller, have fewer positive lymph nodes andbe treatedbybreast-conserving surgery. Breast cancer survival improved in the ACT (5-year survival 87% in 1995–1999; 92% in 2000–2004). Differences in risk factors related to socioeconomic status, fertility, maternal age and alcohol intake could place ACT women at higher risk of breast cancer. Discussion A higher incidence of breast cancer in the ACT cannot be attributed to a different rate of participation in BreastScreen. ACT females appear to have a different risk factor profile for breast cancer, which could account for the higher incidence. The declining mortality from breast cancer reflects the efficacy of radiological screening, along with adherence to nationally recommended breast cancer treatment guidelines in the ACT. Review new research to understand better the reported higher rates of breast cancer in the ACT, Australia. Results of two studies published in 2010 were reviewed.1,2 Rates of breast cancer and risk factors were compared with national figures. ACT females had a higher rate of breast cancer, with an age-standardised incidence of 129.6 cases per 100 000 women for 2002–2006, compared with the national averageof113 per 100 000. However, for most years, this higher incidence was not statistically significant. Participation in BreastScreen was similar to the national rate. Breast cancers detected by screening were likely to be smaller, have fewer positive lymph nodes andbe treatedbybreast-conserving surgery. Breast cancer survival improved in the ACT (5-year survival 87% in 1995–1999; 92% in 2000–2004). Differences in risk factors related to socioeconomic status, fertility, maternal age and alcohol intake could place ACT women at higher risk of breast cancer. A higher incidence of breast cancer in the ACT cannot be attributed to a different rate of participation in BreastScreen. ACT females appear to have a different risk factor profile for breast cancer, which could account for the higher incidence. The declining mortality from breast cancer reflects the efficacy of radiological screening, along with adherence to nationally recommended breast cancer treatment guidelines in the ACT.