Excess risk of breast cancer in the mothers of children with soft tissue sarcomas
1984

Breast Cancer Risk in Mothers of Children with Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Sample size: 143 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): J.M. Birch, A.L. Hartley, H.B. Marsden, M. Harris, R. Swindell

Primary Institution: Manchester Children's Tumour Registry

Hypothesis

Is there an increased risk of developing cancer among the mothers of children with soft tissue sarcomas?

Conclusion

Mothers of children with soft tissue sarcomas have a significantly increased risk of developing breast cancer, especially in certain sub-groups.

Supporting Evidence

  • There were 6 cases of breast cancer among the mothers, all pre-menopausal.
  • The overall risk to the mothers was 3-fold compared to the general population.
  • The highest excess risk was found in mothers of boys with pelvic tumors.
  • Histological review confirmed the types of breast cancer present in the mothers.

Takeaway

Moms of kids with a specific type of cancer are more likely to get breast cancer themselves, especially if their child is younger or has certain types of tumors.

Methodology

The study reviewed health status and cause of death in mothers of children diagnosed with soft tissue sarcomas from a population-based registry.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in the selection of cases and reliance on medical records for health status.

Limitations

The study may not account for all potential confounding factors and relies on historical data.

Participant Demographics

Mothers of children with soft tissue sarcomas, median age at last follow-up was 44 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.01

Statistical Significance

p=0.01

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