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Optimization of a Multiplex RNA-based Expression Assay Using Breast Cancer Archival Material
Published on: August 1, 2018
Difference in Risk Factors for Breast Cancer by ER Status in an Indigenous African Population
M Galukande1, H Wabinga, F Mirembe
1Department of Surgery, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072 Kampala, Uganda.
ISRN Oncology
|August 13, 2013
Summary
This study found no significant differences in common breast cancer risk factors by estrogen receptor (ER) status in Ugandan women. However, ER-negative tumors were associated with higher tumor grade, indicating a need for further research into breast cancer in Africa.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Breast cancer incidence is rising globally, particularly in Uganda, with a 4.5% annual increase in age-standardized incidence rate.
- Hormonal receptor status (Estrogen Receptor - ER, Progesterone, HER2) defines breast cancer subtypes with distinct outcomes, but data on these and risk factors in Sub-Saharan Africa is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between Estrogen Receptor (ER) status and traditional breast cancer risk factors in Ugandan women.
- To address the paucity of data on hormonal receptor status and risk factors in the Sub-Saharan African population.
Main Methods:
- An observational, analytical, hospital-based study conducted at Makerere University, College of Health Sciences.
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to determine ER status on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor tissue sections.
- Data on risk factors including age, parity, breastfeeding, menarche, contraceptive use, and setting were collected from 113 recruited women.
Main Results:
- No significant differences were observed in traditional risk factors (setting, age, contraceptive use, parity, breastfeeding, menarche) based on ER status.
- Estrogen Receptor (ER)-negative tumors showed a significantly higher tumor grade (twice as high) compared to ER-positive tumors.
Conclusions:
- Contrary to some international findings, this study found no significant association between ER status and traditional breast cancer risk factors in Ugandan women.
- The higher tumor grade in ER-negative breast cancers warrants further investigation into the unique presentation and progression of breast cancer in the African context.
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