Risk factors for breast cancer in elderly women are similar to those for younger post-menopausal women

Question

What influence do known risk factors have on incidence of breast cancer in women over 75 years old?

Study design

Prospective cohort study.

Main results

Increases in BMI and height were associated with increasing risk of breast cancer among women over 75. Nulliparity was not a risk factor in this group, although five or more previous live births reduced risk of breast cancer. Older age at menopause increased risk (see results table).

Authors’ conclusions

In women aged 75–84 years, increasing BMI, a family history of breast cancer and older age at menopause increased risk of incident breast cancer while more than five live births was a protective factor. These risk factors are similar to those for younger post-menopausal women.