Medicinski vjesnik, Vol. 38 No. (1-4), 2006.
Review article
Etiology and pathogenesis of breast cancer
Milivoj Boranić
Abstract
In the developed countries, including Republic of Croatia, the breast cancer is the most frequent malignant tumor in female population. Breast cancer frequency rate in the Republic of Croatia is 61,74/100.000 inhabitants, and mortality rate amounts to 15,7. Risk factors for getting breast cancer determined by means of epidemiological research are age, hereditary factors, nutrition and the way of life, reproductive activities, socio-economic status and racial affiliation. Molecular and genetic studies refer to the role of mutagenic factors, sex hormones, free radicals and oncogens. Early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity or late first birth increase the risk of getting breast cancer. Predisposition is being inherited as autosomal dominant characteristic. In families with high breast cancer rate the mutations of two tumor-suppressant genes - BRCA1 and BRCA2 (the abbreviation from engl. breast carcinoma) have been identified. In connection with breast cancer there are another two tumor-suppressant genes, p53 and PTEN, oncogen Ha-ras and estrogen receptor genes. Obesity increases the risk from breast cancer, probably because the adipose (fat) tissue produces estrogens by metabolizing the androgenic hormone androstendione. When taking the estrogenic oral contraceptives for a longer period of time, the risk of getting breast cancer increases in women aged between 40 and 50 from 1,3 to 1,5. The same applies to replacement hormonal therapy after menopause. The connection between breast cancer and excessive calories intake and nutrition quality, especially the one whose contents are animal fats, has been determined. Heterocyclic amines which are produced by frying or grilling the food have carcinogenic characteristics. The protective role is assigned to physical activities, as well as nutrition rich in fruits and vegetables, which contains vitamins and antioxidants.
Keywords
Breast; Cancer; Nutrition; Oncogens; Carcinogens; Hormones
Hrčak ID:
191054
URI
Publication date:
1.12.2006.
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