Comprehensive Meta-analysis of Risk Factors for Breast Cancer among Indian Women

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed among Indian women due to change in life style, reproductive patterns and rapid urbanization.

A systematic search was conducted for case control studies published between January 2010 and April 2025. Data were extracted from 19 studies. Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) ,heterogeneity was assessed with I² statistics, while publication bias was evaluated using funnel plots and Egger's test. Study quality was appraised using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

Sociodemographic risks included unmarried status (OR=1.96; 95% CI: 1.09-3.54) and late age at marriage > 21 years (OR= 2.66; 95% CI: 1.90-3.73). Family history of breast cancer doubled the risk (OR=2.35; 95% CI: 1.73-3.18), and past benign breast disease showed a strong association (OR=4.28; 95% CI: 2.50-7.35). Central obesity (WHR > 0.85) significantly increased risk (OR=2.74; 95% CI: 1.85-4.07), although BMI > 25 kg/m² alone was not significant. Lifestyle factors such as non-vegetarian diet (OR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.19-2.21), tobacco use (OR=1.67; 95% CI: 1.24-2.24), and high-fat diet (OR=4.20; 95% CI: 2.76-6.42) demonstrated strong associations. Reproductive risk factors-including early menarche (OR =1.95), late menopause (OR=1.92), OCP use (OR=2.01), low parity (OR=1.52), previous abortions (OR=2.48), and breastfeeding <6 months (OR= 4.12)-were all significantly linked to higher risk. Several subgroups exhibited notable heterogeneity and occasional publication bias.

Modifiable risks present critical opportunities for prevention.Women with non-modifiable factors warrant targeted screening and risk stratification.