Assessment of Diabetes Mellitus and Risk of Breast Cancer: A Prospective Study on the Local Population

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM), characterized by impaired insulin function or resistance, has gained prominence as a multifaceted health concern. Recent epidemiological studies suggest a potential link between DM and breast cancer risk. This retrospective cohort study, conducted in a Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi from January 2022 to June 2023, aimed to investigate the role of DM in the risk of breast cancer in a population of 120 participants with documented diabetes diagnoses. The participants, with a mean age of 55±8.1 years and fair glycemic control (HbA1c: 7.5%), exhibited a 30% higher likelihood of breast cancer, as indicated by a statistically significant odds ratio of 1.30 (95% CI: 1.05 - 1.60, p < 0.05). Hormonal analyses revealed mean insulin levels of 45 μU/mL, IGF-1 at 150 ng/mL, estrogen at 30 pg/mL, and SHBG at 40 nmol/L in the subset with DM Stratifying by menopausal status and diabetes duration revealed nuanced associations, emphasizing the importance of considering these factors in understanding the DM-breast cancer relationship. Notably, individuals with diabetic nephropathy demonstrated 40% higher odds of breast cancer, remaining significant after adjustments. This study sheds light on the intricate connections between DM and breast cancer risk, emphasizing the need for tailored screening, surveillance, and preventive strategies in clinical management.