Association between Nutrient Contents of Foods and Occurrence of Breast Cancer, A Case Control Study

Abstract

Objective: The study conducted to identify association of nutrient contents of foods with occurrence of breast cancer compares to control group.

Design: It is descriptive (analytic case-control study). Interview questionnaire was used to collect data of; socio-demographic properties, reproductive history, familial cancer history, and life style factors included indices of obesity,  and diet history data to calculate intake of; energy, macronutrient, vitamins and minerals by quantitative food frequency questionnaire.

Methodology: The study included (59) women with diagnosed breast cancer, and (65) controls women free from all types of cancer attending Rizgary and Hawler teaching hospital / Erbil / Iraq , from the period of 1^st April to 30 July 2011. Statistical analysis included Descriptive statistic, and logistic regression analysis

Results: The results showed significant increase in the risk of breast cancer by; low income and low awareness, family history of cancer, and higher intake than controls of; energy, digestible and high glycemic load carbohydrates, saturated fats, cholesterol, vitamins; thiamin, and cholecalciferol and minerals; phosphors, sodium zinc, manganese, and selenium. While primary education level act as significant protective factor in addition to slight protective effect of; vitamins K (naphthoquinones), insoluble fiber and (beans and tea) as foods.

Conclusion: High dietary intake of rich energy nutrients, and salty foods could cause; oxidative stress , hormone disturbance and associate with breast cancer risk . Low and safe levels of dietary micro-nutrients and their blood homeostasis may decrease tissues damage and risk of breast cancer.

Recommendations: The study recommended implementation nutritional status assessment and nutritional educational program by nutritional specialized nurses, and nutritionists.