Breast Cysts and Cancer Risk
Author Information
Author(s): N.J. Bundred, R.R. West, J.O. Dowd, R.E. Mansel, L.E. Hughes
Primary Institution: University of Wales College of Medicine
Hypothesis
Is there an increased risk of breast cancer in women who have had a breast cyst aspirated?
Conclusion
Women who have had multiple breast cysts aspirated have an increased risk of breast cancer.
Supporting Evidence
- 15 women developed breast cancer during the follow-up period.
- 14 out of 352 women with aspirated cysts developed breast cancer, indicating a relative risk of 4.4.
- Women with multiple cysts had the highest risk of developing breast cancer.
Takeaway
If a woman has had a breast cyst drained, she might have a higher chance of getting breast cancer, especially if she has many cysts.
Methodology
The study followed 644 women with benign breast nodularity from 1976 to 1982 to assess their subsequent breast cancer risk.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in tracing women and reliance on historical data.
Limitations
The study only included women who presented with benign nodularity and may not represent all women with breast cysts.
Participant Demographics
Women who presented with breast nodularity between 1976 and 1982.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% confidence limits 1.6 and 4.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website