Risk factors for non-puerperal mastitis: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Medical Research
• Inflammatory Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Non-puerperal mastitis (NPM) is a complex inflammatory breast disease with recurrent episodes and a chronic course.
• The specific etiology of NPM remains unclear, necessitating identification of risk factors for preventive strategies.
• Understanding NPM risk factors is crucial for reducing its incidence and improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis to identify and confirm risk factors associated with Non-puerperal mastitis (NPM).
• To provide a comprehensive overview of established risk factors for NPM based on existing literature.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed across major databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang.
• Meta-analysis was conducted using statistical software Revman 5.4 and Stata SE 15.0 to synthesize data from retrieved studies.

Main Results:

• The meta-analysis included 16 studies with 5402 participants, examining 19 potential risk factors for NPM.
• Identified risk factors for NPM include: crater nipple, lactation mastitis, breast trauma, breastfeeding duration < 6 months, hyperprolactinemia, cardiopathy, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, contraception, smoking, emotional problems, and psychotropic drug use.
• No significant association was found between NPM and galactostasis, allergic history, alcohol consumption, miscarriage, or divorce/being single.

Conclusions:

• This meta-analysis confirms several significant risk factors for Non-puerperal mastitis (NPM).
• Individuals with multiple identified risk factors should undergo regular breast follow-up.
• Early diagnosis and treatment, guided by associated risk factors, are essential for managing NPM effectively and preventing delays.