Frequency of Breast Cancer Recurrence and Factors Impacting the Recurrence and Survival

Authors

  • Ayesha Inam, Sikandar Iqbal, Muhammad Zafar, Fazli Akbar, Samina Ashfaq, Fozia Shaikh, Saadia Muhammad

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53350/pjmhs2023172944

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer recurrence remains a critical challenge despite advancements in screening and treatment. Identifying factors influencing recurrence and survival is essential to improving outcomes.

Objective: To determine the frequency of breast cancer recurrence, assess factors impacting recurrence, and evaluate survival outcomes.

Material and Methods: This retrospective study included 282 breast cancer patients treated between January 2022 and December 2022 at the Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar. Demographic, clinical, and tumor-related variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Associations between recurrence status and variables were evaluated using the chi-square test, and survival outcomes were assessed. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 49.00 ± 14.83 years, with a mean BMI of 27.66 ± 3.79 and a mean tumor size of 2.91 ± 1.16 cm. The recurrence rate was 29.1%, with 200 (70.9%) patients experiencing no recurrence and 82 (29.1%) having recurrence. Overall survival was 79.1%, with 223 patients alive and 59 deceased. Hormone receptor-negative tumors were significantly associated with recurrence (p = 0.010). Smoking status showed borderline significance (p = 0.052), while HER2 status, tumor stage, and lymph node involvement did not demonstrate significant associations with recurrence.

Conclusion: The study highlights the persistent burden of breast cancer recurrence and its impact on survival. Hormone receptor-negative tumors and modifiable factors like smoking are critical in recurrence risk, underscoring the need for stratified management and lifestyle interventions to improve long-term outcomes.

Keywords: Breast cancer, recurrence, survival, hormone receptor status, risk factors, smoking.

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How to Cite

Ayesha Inam, Sikandar Iqbal, Muhammad Zafar, Fazli Akbar, Samina Ashfaq, Fozia Shaikh, Saadia Muhammad. (2023). Frequency of Breast Cancer Recurrence and Factors Impacting the Recurrence and Survival. Pakistan Journal of Medical & Health Sciences, 17(02), 944. https://doi.org/10.53350/pjmhs2023172944