Risk factors of breast cancer among Iraqi women

Objective This study aimed to identify the risk factors of Breast Cancer among Iraqi women. Methods A retrospective case control study, done on 147 breast cancer cases compared with 161 non-malignant cases selected randomly from women health center in Al-Alwiyaa Maternity Teaching Hospital. Results Increased risk for breast cancer significantly associated with increased age especially >= 60 years, widow or divorced women[Odds ratio (OR) 3.7, confidence interval (CI 1.5-8.5)], menopause [OR 6.43, CI(3.58-11.9)],age at menarche <12 years[OR 1.99, CI(1.04-3.8)], and use of contraceptive pills for >= 1 year [OR 1.99, CI(1.01-3.95)]. Conclusion Positive risk factor for breast cancer was old age >= 60 years, widow or divorced women, menopause, age at menarche <12 years, and use of contraceptive pills for >= 1 year. Family history, second-degree relative,not associated with breast cancer. There are some discrepancies between our findings and other studies in the literature need further studies.