Analysis of prognostic factors in 568 patients treated for breast cancer by surgery

The Tygerberg Breast Clinic serves a heterogeneous population, and it is therefore possible to analyse prognostic factors influencing survival and to identify any possible differences between these groups. From 1978 to 1985, 568 breast cancer patients (52% white and 48% colored) were treated surgically in Tygerberg Hospital. Stage for stage, all patients received identical treatment. Colored patients were seen at a younger age, with more advanced disease, had lower estrogen receptor values, and more nodes involved. Cox's regression analysis of age, receptor value, stage, nodal involvement, race, menopausal status, treatment, and study period in the evaluation of disease-free survival and overall survival confirmed stage and lymph node status as prognostic factors. Estrogen receptor status, menopausal status, age at presentation, treatment, study period, and race did not enter the regression, except in stage I, where race was a variable. A target group for directing educational intervention is identified.