Trends of breast cancer in premenopausal women over two decades

Abstract

Objective: Knowledge of breast cancer patterns over time allows a better understanding of the disease, with benefits for research and treatment improvement. This study analyses the evolution of epidemiological and pathological patterns in premenopausal breast cancer over two decades. Material and methods: Medical records from premenopausal breast cancer patients in our department were analysed. Two comparison groups over time were established: group A (1995-1998) and B (2008-2011). Results: Group A included 105 patients and group B 282, revealing an increasing incidence. A significant increase in patient age at diagnosis, age at first pregnancy, breastfeeding and hormonal contraception lifespan were observed, as well as a significant decrease in age of menarche. Imagiological diagnosis increased over time, resulting in an earlier stage disease. Surgical treatment has become predominantly conservative and hormone therapy has increased markedly. Overall prognosis was improved, followed by a significant decrease in recurrence and mortality rates. Conclusion: From 1995 to 2011, significant changes are reported in premenopausal breast cancer in women, which reflects the enormous and significant improvement in healthcare. point and the skill of the enumerator. The information included demographic characteristics–age, ethnicity and body mass index; gynecologic and obstetric data–age of menarche, length of use of hormonal contraception, parity, age at first pregnancy and breastfeeding; clinical characteristics of the tumour–palpable/non-palpable and stage (TNM); histopathological features–tumour type, tumour grade, lymph node status, oestrogen and progesterone receptors (ER and PR), and HER2 receptors status; therapeutic protocols; mortality and recurrence rate.