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Epidemiologic determinants of the mammographic parenchymal pattern. A population-based study within a mammographic
L Bergkvist1, L Tabàr, R Bergström
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden.
American Journal of Epidemiology
|December 1, 1987
Summary
Reproductive factors like age at first birth significantly influence mammographic parenchymal patterns, a lifelong indicator. High-risk patterns were more common in older women and those who had never given birth.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Radiology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Mammographic parenchymal patterns, classified by Wolfe, are associated with breast cancer risk.
- Understanding factors influencing these patterns is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between reproductive history and mammographic parenchymal patterns in a large population-based cohort.
- To identify demographic and reproductive factors linked to high-risk mammographic patterns.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of mammographic data from 38,757 women in a Swedish screening program.
- Utilized Wolfe classification for mammographic parenchymal patterns (P2, DY).
- Employed univariate and multivariate analyses to assess associations with age, parity, and medical history.
Main Results:
- High-risk mammographic patterns (P2, DY) were more prevalent in women aged 46-50.
- Increased age at first birth and nulliparity were associated with higher odds of high-risk patterns.
- Prior breast biopsy increased likelihood of high-risk patterns; family history and contralateral cancer showed weaker, non-significant associations in multivariate analysis.
Conclusions:
- Reproductive characteristics significantly impact mammographic parenchymal patterns throughout a woman's life.
- Age at first birth is a key determinant of mammographic parenchymal patterns.
- Mammographic parenchymal patterns reflect long-term reproductive influences.