Risk Factors Analysis of Breast Cancer Among Women in Nigeria

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer and one of the main causes of death among women in Nigeria. In Nigeria, over a hundred thousand new cases of cancer occur every year, with a high mortality rate among women. The literature has shown that early and accurate detection of breast cancer supports management of the disease and reduces mortality in women. This study intends to examine the occurrence of breast cancer and identify the common risk factors associated with it. A descriptive study was carried out at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ekiti State, Nigeria. The datasets used cover 2018–2022. Controllable and uncontrollable risk factors were put into consideration, and statistical analysis was performed using Fisher’s Formula. The findings of this study showed several risk factors contributed to the increase in breast cancer, along with their strengths (degree of riskiness). An evaluation of part of the result derived from sample data (hormonal contraception) revealed that 81% of patients who engaged in oral contraceptives at an early or later age had a slightly higher risk of developing breast cancer. Identifying and controlling these risk factors will help reduce the spread of breast cancer among Nigerian women. The goal of this study is to establish the safeguard approaches that will rapidly reduce the occurrences of breast cancer by discovering the susceptible variables.