Lifestyle and vitamin D dosage in women with breast cancer

The prevention strategy of breast cancer is still the key factor for early diagnosis and the most effective method for tracking the disease.

This study aimed to evaluate the association vitamin D level with breast cancer in women.

This hospital case-control study was conducted with 181 women with breast cancer and 197 healthy controls. Vitamin D status, calcium, phosphorus and PTH serum dosage and data collection related to lifestyle and patient's history, besides anthropometric measurements were performed. Univariate analysis (Chi-square and raw odds ratio) and multivariate analysis were performed through multivariate logistic regression.

This study shows a higher value of vitamin D in health controls (26.9 mg/dL) than in breast cancer women (24.8 mg/dL). Higher numbers of women with sufficient vitamin D status (34.85%) were found in control group than cancer group. Using the multiple logistic regression model, the family history of breast cancer (OR 36.37, 95%CI 4.75-278.50) and menopause (OR 5.17, 95% CI 2.72-9.80) had a direct association with breast cancer, while the level of vitamin D (OR 0.95, 95%CI 0.91-0.99) and moderate physical activity (OR 0.31, 95%CI 0.10-0.93) maintained the inverse associations with the disease.

Vitamin D status and the practice of moderate physical activity were considered protective factors for breast cancer. However, menopause and family history of breast cancer were considered a risk factor for breast cancer.