Socio-Demographic and Lifestyle Predictors of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in Bangladeshi Women

Open Access

Abstract

Background (including objective): Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive molecular subtype of breast cancer with distinct epidemiology and high burden among South Asian women. Objective: To determine the association of socio-demographic factors, reproductive characteristics, and lifestyle patterns with TNBC. Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Bangladesh Medical University from January to December 2023. A total of 116 female patients (58 TNBC; 58 non-TNBC) were enrolled through purposive sampling. Data on socio-demographic, reproductive, and lifestyle factors were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and clinical checklists. TNBC status was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v.26. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify predictors of TNBC (p < 0.05 considered significant). Results: TNBC-positive patients were younger than non-TNBC patients (39.79 ± 8.98 vs. 45.22 ± 11.22 years; p = 0.005) and more frequently resided in urban areas (43.86% vs. 22.41%; p = 0.015). Non-modifiable risk factors (early pregnancy, breastfeeding, early menarche, early menopause) and modifiable factors (OCP use, processed food consumption) were not significantly associated with TNBC. Moderate-intensity physical activity was more common in TNBC patients (96.6% vs. 82.8%). Multivariable logistic regression identified urban residence (OR = 2.704; 95% CI: 1.204-6.073; p = 0.016) and moderate-intensity physical activity (OR = 5.833; 95% CI: 1.218-27.937; p = 0.027) as independent predictors of TNBC. Conclusion: In this population, TNBC was more prevalent among younger, urban-residing women. Urban residence and lifestyle factors may play a role in TNBC pathogenesis.