Occupation and breast cancer risk in middle-aged women

The authors analyzed data from a population-based case-control study of breast cancer in middle-aged women residing in King County, Washington, to examine the relation between occupation and breast cancer risk. A total of 537 cases and 492 controls completed in-person interviews. Subjects provided job titles and years of employment for their three main occupations since age 18. While there were case-control differences in the frequency with which certain jobs were reported, all were within the limits of chance, given no true association. Also, few additional increases in risk were associated with long-term employment. Relative risk (RR) estimates were elevated for women working in precision textile and apparel jobs (six cases and one control, RR = 5.2). To a lesser extent, RR estimates were also elevated for receptionists, cosmetologists, and the category of painters/sculptors/printmakers. A slight increase in risk was associated with several occupations, including nursing and teaching.