Introduction: There are gaps in knowledge in breast cancer prevention studies focusing on interactions among mammographic findings, inflammation, and diet, especially those related to carbohydrates.
Objective: We aimed to verify the association among mammographic findings, inflammatory markers, and carbohydrate quality index (CQI) in women.
Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study of 532 women assisted in a healthcare service. The enrolled women were divided into two groups according to their mammographic findings: those without and those with abnormal mammographic findings. Two 24-hour dietary reminders were applied, and CQI was determined based on four components: fibers, glycemic index, ratio between whole and total grains, and ratio between solid and total carbohydrates. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was calculated as an inflammatory marker.
Results: There were 178 (33.5%) women with abnormal mammographic findings, and 20 (3.8%) had NLR. There was no association between CQI and mammographic findings and NLR. Women with abnormal mammographic findings and high NLR had lower CQI (p = 0.039) and lower whole total ratio (p = 0.024).
Conclusion: Women with abnormal findings and high NLR had worse CQI and worse overall total grain ratio.
Keywords: Glycemic index; carbohydrate quality;; food intake; inflammation; lymphocyte; mammography; neutrophil.