Association between nutrient contents of foods and occurrence of breast cancer, a case-control study

Abstract EN

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 ( ) women with diagnosed breast cancer, and ( ) controls women free from all types of cancer attending Rizgary and Hawler teaching hospital / Erbil / Iraq , from the period of st April to July .

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.