Genetic, Hormonal, and Cultural Determinants of Breast Cancer Risk Among Egyptian Women Under 50 Years

Background: Breast cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality 
globally, with increasing incidence in women under 50 years, particularly in 
developing countries like Egypt. Objective:  To investigate genetic, hormonal, 
and cultural determinants of breast cancer risk among Egyptian women under 
50 years and to analyze their associations with socio-demographic, medical, 
reproductive, lifestyle, and psychosocial factors. Methods: A case-control study 
was conducted involving 103 breast cancer cases and 208 controls. Data were 
collected via expert-reviewed questionnaires and biochemical assessments of 
serum estradiol (E2) and oxytocin (OT) levels. Statistical analyses included chi
square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression to identify significant risk factors 
and predictors. Results: Majority of BC cases (64.1%) were aged 41–49 years, 
with a mean age of 40.56 ± 6.65. Illiteracy and being a housewife were 
significantly associated with higher BC risk. Medical history such as 
hypertension, diabetes, bone ache, and hormonal treatment showed strong links 
to BC, especially hormonal therapy (OR=19.46). Logistic regression revealed 
oral contraceptive use (OR=20.00), family history (OR=18.47), smoking 
(OR=14.87), physical inactivity, and CYP17 gene polymorphism as major 
predictors. Psychosocial factors such as emotional dissatisfaction and low 
sexual satisfaction were also significant. Age and CYP19 polymorphism were 
not significant predictors. Conclusions: Breast cancer risk among Egyptian 
women under 50 is multifactorial, influenced by genetic predisposition, 
hormonal exposure, lifestyle, and psychosocial factors. Recommendations: 
Implement targeted educational programs on modifiable risk factors, integrate 
comprehensive risk assessments and address psychosocial well-being in 
prevention strategies