Correlation of mammographic density and breast cancer characteristics

Background and objective: Mammographic density is regarded as one of the most prevalent risk factors for developing breast cancer. However, there is limited data on its relationship with tumor characteristics. Therefore, this study has been conducted to evaluate the association between mammographic density and breast cancer subtypes as well as tumor characteristics. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was performed on 105 women with pathologically proved breast cancer. Mammographic breast density was scored according to Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System classification before receiving treatment, followed by correlation with some risk factors and tumor characteristics. Results: From the 105 enrolled cases, about 70% had low mammographic density, and 30% had high mammographic density. Mammographic breast density was significantly associated with age and menopausal status, where high density was more prevalent among age group <45 years (58%) and among premenopausal women (71%). No significant association was found between density and Body Mass Index. Overall, estrogen positive, progesterone positive and luminal B were more prevalent in both low and high breast density cases; however, these findings were not significant. No significant relationship between mammography density and tumor grade, stage, size or lymph node involvement was observed. Conclusion: Mammographic breast density is positively associated with age and menopausal status but not associated with Body Mass Index or tumor characteristics.