Breast cancer risk in elderly women with autoimmune diseases
Author Information
Author(s): Gadalla S M, Amr S, Langenberg P, Baumgarten M, Davidson W F, Schairer C, Engels E A, Pfeiffer R M, Goedert J J
Primary Institution: Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute
Hypothesis
Are systemic rheumatic diseases associated with breast cancer risk in elderly women?
Conclusion
The study found that rheumatoid arthritis is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer, while systemic lupus erythematosus may reduce the risk of ER-negative breast cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- Women with rheumatoid arthritis had a lower risk of developing breast cancer.
- Systemic lupus erythematosus was associated with a reduced risk of ER-negative breast cancer.
- The study included a large sample size of 84,778 breast cancer cases and controls.
- Data was sourced from the SEER-Medicare database, ensuring a population-based approach.
- Findings suggest systemic inflammation may influence breast cancer risk.
Takeaway
Older women with rheumatoid arthritis are less likely to get breast cancer, and those with lupus might have a lower chance of getting a specific type of breast cancer.
Methodology
The study used a population-based case-control design, comparing breast cancer cases with age-matched cancer-free controls using data from the SEER-Medicare database.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to missing information on ER expression and underestimation of immunosuppressive medication use.
Limitations
The study lacked information on important breast cancer risk factors such as obesity and parity, and detailed medical information about the SARD conditions.
Participant Demographics
Participants were women aged 67-99 years, with a majority being white.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.02
Confidence Interval
95% CI=0.82–0.93 for RA
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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