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The Risk of Antipsychotic Drugs on Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Anak Agung Bagus Putra Indrakusuma1, I Gede Krisna Arim Sadeva1, I Gusti Ngurah Ananda Wira Kusuma1
1Medical Faculty, Udayana University, Bali, Indonesia.
This systematic review found no significant link between antipsychotic drug use and increased breast cancer risk. Further research is needed to understand potential associations and heterogeneity in study findings.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Antipsychotic medications are widely prescribed for various psychiatric conditions.
- Concerns exist regarding potential long-term health effects of antipsychotic drug consumption.
- The relationship between antipsychotic use and breast cancer incidence requires thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze existing studies investigating the association between antipsychotic drug consumption and breast cancer.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence on this topic.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted.
- Relevant studies were identified from major databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane, Medline).
- Data were analyzed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
Main Results:
- Eleven studies (5 case-control, 6 cohort) were included, with an overall quality score of 6.7.
- Meta-analysis of case-control studies (81,766 breast cancer patients, 1,150,316 controls) revealed no significant association (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.94-1.19, p=0.36).
- Evidence of heterogeneity was observed in the overall analysis (Q-test p < 0.10, I² > 75%).
Conclusions:
- Current evidence suggests that antipsychotic drug use does not significantly elevate the risk of developing breast cancer.
- The observed heterogeneity indicates variability in study designs or populations that may influence findings.
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