Breast cancer: Epidemiology, risk factors and screening

Hangcheng Xu; Binghe Xu

doi:10.21147/j.issn.1000-9604.2023.06.02

Breast cancer: Epidemiology, risk factors and screening

Chin J Cancer Res. 2023 Dec 30;35(6):565-583. doi: 10.21147/j.issn.1000-9604.2023.06.02.

Authors

Hangcheng Xu¹, Binghe Xu¹

Affiliation

¹ Department of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China.

PMID: 38204449
PMCID: PMC10774137
DOI: 10.21147/j.issn.1000-9604.2023.06.02

Abstract

Breast cancer is a global health concern with a significant impact on the well-being of women. Worldwide, the past several decades have witnessed changes in the incidence and mortality of breast cancer. Additionally, epidemiological data reveal distinct geographic and demographic disparities globally. A range of modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors are established as being associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer. This review discusses genetic, hormonal, behavioral, environmental, and breast-related risk factors. Screening plays a critical role in the effective management of breast cancer. Various screening modalities, including mammography, ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and physical examination, have different applications, and a combination of these modalities is applied in practice. Current screening recommendations are based on factors including age and risk, with a significant emphasis on minimizing potential harms to achieve an optimal benefits-to-harms ratio. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the epidemiology, risk factors, and screening of breast cancer. Understanding these elements is crucial for improving breast cancer management and reducing its burden on affected individuals and healthcare systems.

Keywords: Breast neoplasms; epidemiology; mass screening; risk factors.