Birth weight and breast cancer risk
Author Information
Author(s): Troisi R, Hatch E E, Titus-Ernstoff L, Palmer J R, Hyer M, Strohsnitter W C, Robboy S J, Kaufman R, Herbst A, Adam E, Hoover R N
Primary Institution: National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health
Hypothesis
Does the positive association between birth weight and breast cancer risk differ by other breast cancer risk factors?
Conclusion
High birth weight was associated with breast cancer risk in younger and more educated women, but not overall.
Supporting Evidence
- High birth weight was positively associated with breast cancer risk in younger women.
- The association varied by education level, with higher risk in more educated women.
- Overall, there was no significant association between birth weight and breast cancer risk.
Takeaway
The study looked at whether being born heavier affects the chances of getting breast cancer later, especially for younger and more educated women.
Methodology
The study evaluated the association of birth weight and breast cancer risk using data from the NCI's Combined DES Cohorts Follow-up Study, analyzing birth records and questionnaire data.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from self-reported data and the specific characteristics of the cohorts studied.
Limitations
The study's findings may not be generalizable due to the specific population studied and the limited number of cases in some subgroups.
Participant Demographics
The study included women from the NCI's Combined DES Cohorts, with a focus on younger and more educated women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P<0.0001 for birth weight and adult height association; P=0.004 for interaction by education level.
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.83–5.7 for high birth weight in women under 40.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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