Quality of life of women who underwent breast cancer treatment relative to sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors.

OBJECTIVE: Patients with cancer often undergo multiple extended treatments that decrease their quality of life. However, the quality of life of women with breast cancer after they undergo treatment remains underexplored in Brazil. Therefore, this study determined sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors related to the post-treatment quality of life of women with breast cancer. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 101 women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2014 and 2016 and treated at a Brazilian Oncology Reference Service. Data were collected from them using face-to-face surveys. Quality of life was evaluated using the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and EORTC Breast Cancer-specific Quality of Life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-BR23). The data collected were analyzed using Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS: The median score on the global health, functional, and symptom scales of the EORTC QLQ-C30 was 75.00 (Interquartile range=33.33), 75.99 (Standard deviation [SD]=19.26), and 19.67 (SD=16.91), respectively. The mean score on the functional and symptom scales of the EORTC QLQ-BR23 was 61.89 (SD=17.21) and 20.12 (SD=16.94), respectively. Furthermore, higher post-treatment quality of life was found to be associated with being aged 50 or more, being Black, having eight or more years of education, having a partner, having a paying job, receiving treatment from the private healthcare system, having a higher income, living in the municipality where healthcare services are availed, engaging in physical activity, not smoking, being more religious, having more social support, not being overweight, having no comorbidities, and undergoing lumpectomy. CONCLUSION: Sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors significantly impact the quality of life of women who undergo breast cancer treatment. Implementing interventions that improve health and reducing inequalities in the access to healthcare services can improve the quality of life of these patients. BACKGROUND: Sociodemographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors impact the quality of life of breast cancer survivors. BACKGROUND: Breast cancer therapy may affect future perspectives and emotional, cognitive, and sexual function. BACKGROUND: Some aspects of quality of life still require attention from health professionals. BACKGROUND: Higher post-treatment quality of life of women with breast cancer is linked to being aged 50 or more, being Black, having 8 or more years of education, having a partner, having a paying job, receiving care from private healthcare, having a high per capita income, residing in the municipality where the service is availed, engaging in physical activity, not smoking, greater religiosity, having more social support, having a normal weight, having no comorbidities, and undergoing lumpectomy.

Case Study: Rosai-Dorfman Disease and Its Multifaceted Aspects.

Rosai-Dorfman Disease (RDD) is a rare non-Langerhans histiocytosis, usually self-limited and presenting with massive, painless, bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy, with or without constitutional symptoms. Extranodal disease is frequently present, and may happen in the absence of lymph node involvement, symptomatology and differential diagnosis will depend on the site affected and fatal cases may occur. The authors present two cases of Rosai-Dorfman disease (RDD), diagnosed through immunohistochemistry, with different progressions, one with complete remission and one culminating in death, highlighting the variety of presentations and the diagnostic difficulty. RDD is a rare condition with clinical presentations similar to several diseases, and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of lymphadenopathy with extranodal lesions.

Quality of life of women who underwent breast cancer treatment relative to sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors

ABSTRACT Objective Patients with cancer often undergo multiple extended treatments that decrease their quality of life. However, the quality of life of women with breast cancer after they undergo treatment remains underexplored in Brazil. Therefore, this study determined sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors related to the post-treatment quality of life of women with breast cancer. Methods This cross-sectional study involved 101 women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2014 and 2016 and treated at a Brazilian Oncology Reference Service. Data were collected from them using face-to-face surveys. Quality of life was evaluated using the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and EORTC Breast Cancer-specific Quality of Life questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-BR23). The data collected were analyzed using Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. Results The median score on the global health, functional, and symptom scales of the EORTC QLQ-C30 was 75.00 (Interquartile range=33.33), 75.99 (Standard deviation [SD]=19.26), and 19.67 (SD=16.91), respectively. The mean score on the functional and symptom scales of the EORTC QLQ-BR23 was 61.89 (SD=17.21) and 20.12 (SD=16.94), respectively. Furthermore, higher post-treatment quality of life was found to be associated with being aged 50 or more, being Black, having eight or more years of education, having a partner, having a paying job, receiving treatment from the private healthcare system, having a higher income, living in the municipality where healthcare services are availed, engaging in physical activity, not smoking, being more religious, having more social support, not being overweight, having no comorbidities, and undergoing lumpectomy. Conclusion Sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical factors significantly impact the quality of life of women who undergo breast cancer treatment. Implementing interventions that improve health and reducing inequalities in the access to healthcare services can improve the quality of life of these patients.

Breast cancer survival and the health system in Brazil: an analysis of public and private healthcare.

Background: The incidence of breast cancer is increasing globally; however, survival outcomes vary and are lower in developing countries. Methods: We analyzed the 5- and 10-year survival rates for breast cancer according to the type of healthcare insurance (public vs. private) in a referral center for cancer care in the Brazilian southeast region. This hospital-based cohort study included 517 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer between 2003 and 2005. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the probability of survival, and the Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to assess prognostic factors. Results: The 5- and 10-year breast cancer survival rates were as follows: private healthcare service survival rate of 80.6% (95% CI 75.0-85.0) and 71.5% (95% CI 65.4-77.1), respectively, and public healthcare service survival rate of 68.5% (95% CI 62.5-73.8) and 58.5% (95% CI 52.1-64.4), respectively. The main factors associated with the worst prognosis were lymph node involvement in both healthcare services and tumor size >2 cm only in public health services. The use of hormone therapy (private) and radiotherapy (public) was associated with the best survival rates. Conclusions: The survival discrepancies found between health services can be explained mainly by the difference in the stage of the disease at the time of diagnosis, indicating inequalities in access to the early detection of breast cancer.

Histological and Immunohistochemical Characteristics for Hereditary Breast Cancer Risk in a Cohort of Brazilian Women / Características histológicas e imunohistoquímicas para risco hereditário de câncer de mama em uma coorte de mulheres brasileiras

Abstract Objective The study aimed to characterize the clinical, histological, and immunohistochemical profile of women with invasive breast cancer, according to the risk for Hereditary Predisposition Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome in a Brazilian population. Methods This is a retrospective study performed from a hospital-based cohort of 522 women, diagnosed with breast cancer treated at an oncology referral center in the Southeast region of Brazil, between 2014 and 2016. Results Among the 430 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer who composed the study population, 127 (29.5%) were classified as at increased risk for hereditary predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer syndrome. There was a lower level of education in patients at increased risk (34.6%) when compared with those at usual risk (46.0%). Regarding tumor characteristics, women at increased risk had higher percentages of the disease diagnosed at an advanced stage (32.3%), and with tumors > 2cm (63.0%), with increased prevalence for both characteristics, when compared with those at usual risk. Furthermore, we found higher percentages of HG3 (43.3%) and Ki-67 ≥ 25% (64.6%) in women at increased risk, with prevalence being about twice as high in this group. The presence of triple-negative tumors was observed as 25.2% in women at increased risk and 6.0% in women at usual risk, with the prevalence of absence of biomarkers being 2.5 times higher among women in the increased risk group. Conclusion From the clinical criteria routinely used in the diagnosis of breast cancer, the care practice of genetic counseling for patients at increased risk of hereditary breast cancer in contexts such as Brazil is still scarce.

Resumo Objetivo O presente estudo buscou caracterizar o perfil clínico, histológico e imunohistoquímico de mulheres com câncer de mama invasivo segundo o risco para a Síndrome de Predisposição Hereditária ao Câncer de Mama e Ovário em uma população brasileira. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo realizado a partir de uma coorte hospitalar composta por 522 mulheres diagnosticadas com câncer de mama entre 2014 e 2016 assistidas em um centro de referência oncológica localizado na região sudeste brasileira. Resultados Entre as 430 mulheres diagnosticadas com câncer de mama invasivo que compuseram a população de estudo, 127 (29,5%) foram classificadas como de risco aumentado para a síndrome de predisposição hereditária ao câncer de mama e ovário. Verificou-se menor nível de escolaridade nas pacientes com risco aumentado (34,6%) quando comparadas àquelas consideradas como de risco habitual (46,0%). Quanto às características do tumor, as mulheres de risco aumentado apresentaram maiores percentuais de doença diagnosticada em estádio avançado (32,3%) e com tumores > 2cm (63,0%), com prevalência aumentada para ambas as características, quando comparadas àquelas de risco habitual. Ainda nas mulheres de risco aumentado, foram encontrados maiores percentuais de GH3 (43,3%) e Ki-67 ≥ 25% (64,6%), com prevalência cerca de duas vezes maior neste grupo. A presença de tumores triplo-negativos foi observada em 25,2% nas mulheres de risco aumentado e 6,0% nas mulheres de risco habitual, com prevalência de ausência de biomarcadores 2,5 vezes maior entre as mulheres do grupo de risco aumentado. Conclusão A partir dos critérios clínicos rotineiramente utilizados no diagnóstico do câncer de mama, a prática assistencial do aconselhamento genético para as pacientes com risco aumentado de câncer de mama hereditário em contextos como o do Brasil ainda é escarça.

Time to diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer in public and private health services.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the time to diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer and the associated factors, according to the type of care (public vs. private). METHODOLOGY: Retrospective cohort study with 477 women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2014 and 2016. Data were collected in an oncology service in a municipality in Minas Gerais, in the 2018-2019 period. Analyzes were performed using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox's proportional regression model. RESULTS: The median time to diagnosis was 70 days, being shorter for women who discovered the disease through screening tests and who were diagnosed in early stages of the disease. The median time for treatment was 32 days, which was shorter for women assisted by private health service, with a high level of education and who were diagnosed in early stages. CONCLUSIONS: Private care and facilitators of access to breast cancer care were associated with shorter waiting times.

Histological and Immunohistochemical Characteristics for Hereditary Breast Cancer Risk in a Cohort of Brazilian Women.

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to characterize the clinical, histological, and immunohistochemical profile of women with invasive breast cancer, according to the risk for Hereditary Predisposition Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome in a Brazilian population. METHODS: This is a retrospective study performed from a hospital-based cohort of 522 women, diagnosed with breast cancer treated at an oncology referral center in the Southeast region of Brazil, between 2014 and 2016. RESULTS: Among the 430 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer who composed the study population, 127 (29.5%) were classified as at increased risk for hereditary predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer syndrome. There was a lower level of education in patients at increased risk (34.6%) when compared with those at usual risk (46.0%). Regarding tumor characteristics, women at increased risk had higher percentages of the disease diagnosed at an advanced stage (32.3%), and with tumors > 2cm (63.0%), with increased prevalence for both characteristics, when compared with those at usual risk. Furthermore, we found higher percentages of HG3 (43.3%) and Ki-67 ≥ 25% (64.6%) in women at increased risk, with prevalence being about twice as high in this group. The presence of triple-negative tumors was observed as 25.2% in women at increased risk and 6.0% in women at usual risk, with the prevalence of absence of biomarkers being 2.5 times higher among women in the increased risk group. CONCLUSION: From the clinical criteria routinely used in the diagnosis of breast cancer, the care practice of genetic counseling for patients at increased risk of hereditary breast cancer in contexts such as Brazil is still scarce.

OBJETIVO: O presente estudo buscou caracterizar o perfil clínico, histológico e imunohistoquímico de mulheres com câncer de mama invasivo segundo o risco para a Síndrome de Predisposição Hereditária ao Câncer de Mama e Ovário em uma população brasileira. MéTODOS: Trata-se de um estudo retrospectivo realizado a partir de uma coorte hospitalar composta por 522 mulheres diagnosticadas com câncer de mama entre 2014 e 2016 assistidas em um centro de referência oncológica localizado na região sudeste brasileira. RESULTADOS: Entre as 430 mulheres diagnosticadas com câncer de mama invasivo que compuseram a população de estudo, 127 (29,5%) foram classificadas como de risco aumentado para a síndrome de predisposição hereditária ao câncer de mama e ovário. Verificou-se menor nível de escolaridade nas pacientes com risco aumentado (34,6%) quando comparadas àquelas consideradas como de risco habitual (46,0%). Quanto às características do tumor, as mulheres de risco aumentado apresentaram maiores percentuais de doença diagnosticada em estádio avançado (32,3%) e com tumores > 2cm (63,0%), com prevalência aumentada para ambas as características, quando comparadas àquelas de risco habitual. Ainda nas mulheres de risco aumentado, foram encontrados maiores percentuais de GH3 (43,3%) e Ki-67 ≥ 25% (64,6%), com prevalência cerca de duas vezes maior neste grupo. A presença de tumores triplo-negativos foi observada em 25,2% nas mulheres de risco aumentado e 6,0% nas mulheres de risco habitual, com prevalência de ausência de biomarcadores 2,5 vezes maior entre as mulheres do grupo de risco aumentado. CONCLUSãO: A partir dos critérios clínicos rotineiramente utilizados no diagnóstico do câncer de mama, a prática assistencial do aconselhamento genético para as pacientes com risco aumentado de câncer de mama hereditário em contextos como o do Brasil ainda é escarça.

Time to diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer in public and private health services / Tiempo de diagnóstico y tratamiento del cáncer de mama en asistencia pública y privada / Tempo para diagnóstico e tratamento do câncer de mama na assistência pública e privada

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the time to diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer and the associated factors, according to the type of care (public vs. private). Methodology: Retrospective cohort study with 477 women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2014 and 2016. Data were collected in an oncology service in a municipality in Minas Gerais, in the 2018-2019 period. Analyzes were performed using the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox's proportional regression model. Results: The median time to diagnosis was 70 days, being shorter for women who discovered the disease through screening tests and who were diagnosed in early stages of the disease. The median time for treatment was 32 days, which was shorter for women assisted by private health service, with a high level of education and who were diagnosed in early stages. Conclusions: Private care and facilitators of access to breast cancer care were associated with shorter waiting times.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar el tiempo de diagnóstico y tratamiento del cáncer de mama y los factores asociados, según el tipo de assistência (pública vs. privada). Metodología: Cohorte retrospectiva con 477 mujeres diagnosticadas de cáncer de mama entre 2014-2016. Los datos fueron recolectados en un servicio de oncología de Minas Gerais, en el período 2018-2019. Los análisis se realizaron mediante el método de Kaplan-Meier y el modelo de regresión de Cox. Resultados: Mediana de tiempo para el diagnóstico fue de 70 días - menor para las que descubrieron la enfermedad mediante pruebas de detección y que fueron diagnosticadas en etapas tempranas. Mediana de tiempo para tratamiento fue de 32 días - menor para las atendidas por la red privada, con alto nivel educativo y diagnosticadas en etapas tempranas. Conclusiones: Asistencia en la red privada y facilitadores de acceso a la atención del cáncer de mama asociados a tiempos de espera más cortos.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar o tempo para o diagnóstico e tratamento do câncer de mama e os fatores associados, segundo o tipo de assistência (pública vs. privada). Métodos: Coorte retrospectiva com 477 mulheres diagnosticadas com câncer de mama entre 2014-2016. Os dados foram coletados em um serviço de oncologia de um município de Minas Gerais, entre 2018-2019. As análises foram realizadas pelo método de Kaplan-Meier e pelo modelo de regressão de Cox. Resultados: O tempo mediano para diagnóstico foi de 70 dias, sendo menor para aquelas que descobriram a doença por exames de rastreamento e diagnosticadas em estádios iniciais. O tempo mediano para o tratamento foi de 32 dias, sendo menor para as mulheres assistidas pela rede privada, com alta escolaridade e diagnosticadas em estádios iniciais. Conclusões: Assistência na rede privada e facilitadores do acesso ao cuidado do câncer de mama associaram-se a menores tempos de espera.

[Racial disparity in 10-year breast cancer survival: a mediation analysis using potential responses approach]. / Disparidade racial na sobrevivência em 10 anos para o câncer de mama: uma análise de mediação usando abordagem de respostas potenciais.

The study's objectives were to investigate the association between race/color and 10-year survival in women with breast cancer and the role of staging as mediator. This was a hospital cohort with 481 women with invasive breast cancer diagnosed from 2003 to 2005. Comparisons were made between white and black women as to sociodemographic characteristics and staging, using the chi-square test, and 10-year survival, using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression methods. For the race/color variable, direct and indirect effects were estimated, mediated by staging, with adjustment for the socioeconomic status of the woman's area of residence and age, using the potential responses (counterfactual) model and Cox multiple regression. Black women living in low-income census tracts were more likely to use the public health care system and to be diagnosed at more advanced stages. Breast cancer-specific 10-year survival was 64.3% (95%CI: 60.0; 68.9), with a significant difference between whites (69.5%; 95%CI: 64.8; 74.6) and blacks (44; 95%CI: 35.2%; 55.1). In the multivariate models adjusted for income and age, black women had worse prognosis (HR = 2.09; 95%CI: 1.76; 2.51), and the proportion mediated by staging was 40% (95%CI: 37; 42). There is racial disparity in 10-year breast cancer survival in Brazilian women, mediated mainly by more advanced staging at diagnosis in black women. This highlights the need to expand both the coverage and the quality of breast cancer screening and to facilitate access to early diagnosis and treatment in order to reduce racial inequality.

Os objetivos foram investigar a associação entre raça/cor e a sobrevivência em 10 anos de mulheres com câncer de mama e o papel do estadiamento como mediador. Coorte hospitalar com 481 mulheres com câncer invasivo de mama, diagnosticadas entre 2003 e 2005. Foram feitas comparações entre mulheres brancas e negras quanto às características sociodemográficas e ao estadiamento, usando o teste qui-quadrado, e à sobrevivência em 10 anos, usando os métodos de Kaplan-Meier e regressão de Cox. Foram estimados para a variável raça/cor efeitos diretos e indiretos, mediados pelo estadiamento, com ajuste para a condição social da área de residência e idade, utilizando o modelo de respostas potenciais (contrafactual) e regressão múltipla de Cox. As mulheres negras residiam em setores censitários de menor renda, eram usuárias do setor público em maior proporção e foram diagnosticadas com estadiamentos mais avançados. A sobrevivência específica em 10 anos foi de 64,3% (IC95%: 60,0; 68,9), com diferença significativa entre brancas (69,5%; IC95%: 64,8; 74,6) e negras (44%; IC95%: 35,2; 55,1). Nos modelos múltiplos, ajustados para renda e idade, as negras tiveram pior prognóstico (HR = 2,09; IC95%: 1,76; 2,51), e a proporção mediada pelo estadiamento foi de 40% (IC95%: 37; 42). Há disparidade racial na sobrevivência do câncer de mama em 10 anos, mediada principalmente pelo estadiamento mais avançado da doença nas mulheres negras. Isso aponta para a necessidade de ampliar a cobertura e a qualidade do programa de rastreamento dessa doença e facilitar o acesso ao diagnóstico e tratamento precoces, com vistas à redução da iniquidade racial.

Los objetivos fueron investigar la asociación entre raza/color y la supervivencia en 10 años de mujeres con cáncer de mama y el papel de la fase de desarrollo como mediador. Se trata de una cohorte hospitalaria de 481 mujeres, con cáncer invasivo de mama, diagnosticadas entre 2003 y 2005. Se realizaron comparaciones entre mujeres blancas y negras, en cuanto a las características sociodemográficas y a la fase del cáncer, usando el test chi-quadrado, y la supervivencia en 10 años, usando los métodos de Kaplan-Meier y regresión de Cox. Se estimaron para la variable raza/color efectos directos e indirectos, mediados por las diferentes fases, con ajuste en la condición social del área de residencia y edad, utilizando el modelo de respuestas potenciales (contrafactual) y regresión múltiple de Cox. Las mujeres negras residían en sectores censitarios de menor renta, eran usuarias del sector público en mayor proporción y fueron diagnosticadas en fases más avanzadas. La supervivencia específica en 10 años fue de un 64,3% (IC95%: 60,0; 68,9), con una diferencia significativa entre blancas (69,5%; IC95%: 64,8%-74,6%) y negras (44%; IC95%: 35,2; 55,1). En los modelos múltiples, ajustados para renta y edad, las negras tuvieron un peor pronóstico (HR = 2,09; IC95%: 1,76-2,51), y la proporción mediada por el estadio fue de un 40% (IC95%: 37; 42). Existe disparidad racial en la supervivencia del cáncer de mama en 10 años, mediada principalmente por el estadio más avanzado de la enfermedad en las mujeres negras. Esto apunta la necesidad de ampliar la cobertura y calidad del programa de rastreo de esa enfermedad y facilitar el acceso al diagnóstico y tratamiento precoces, con vistas a la reducción de la inequidad racial.

Disparidade racial na sobrevivência em 10 anos para o câncer de mama: uma análise de mediação usando abordagem de respostas potenciais / Racial disparity in 10-year breast cancer survival: a mediation analysis using potential responses approach / Disparidad racial en la supervivencia en 10 años para el cáncer de mama: un análisis de mediación usando un enfoque de respuestas potenciales

Os objetivos foram investigar a associação entre raça/cor e a sobrevivência em 10 anos de mulheres com câncer de mama e o papel do estadiamento como mediador. Coorte hospitalar com 481 mulheres com câncer invasivo de mama, diagnosticadas entre 2003 e 2005. Foram feitas comparações entre mulheres brancas e negras quanto às características sociodemográficas e ao estadiamento, usando o teste qui-quadrado, e à sobrevivência em 10 anos, usando os métodos de Kaplan-Meier e regressão de Cox. Foram estimados para a variável raça/cor efeitos diretos e indiretos, mediados pelo estadiamento, com ajuste para a condição social da área de residência e idade, utilizando o modelo de respostas potenciais (contrafactual) e regressão múltipla de Cox. As mulheres negras residiam em setores censitários de menor renda, eram usuárias do setor público em maior proporção e foram diagnosticadas com estadiamentos mais avançados. A sobrevivência específica em 10 anos foi de 64,3% (IC95%: 60,0; 68,9), com diferença significativa entre brancas (69,5%; IC95%: 64,8; 74,6) e negras (44%; IC95%: 35,2; 55,1). Nos modelos múltiplos, ajustados para renda e idade, as negras tiveram pior prognóstico (HR = 2,09; IC95%: 1,76; 2,51), e a proporção mediada pelo estadiamento foi de 40% (IC95%: 37; 42). Há disparidade racial na sobrevivência do câncer de mama em 10 anos, mediada principalmente pelo estadiamento mais avançado da doença nas mulheres negras. Isso aponta para a necessidade de ampliar a cobertura e a qualidade do programa de rastreamento dessa doença e facilitar o acesso ao diagnóstico e tratamento precoces, com vistas à redução da iniquidade racial.

The study's objectives were to investigate the association between race/color and 10-year survival in women with breast cancer and the role of staging as mediator. This was a hospital cohort with 481 women with invasive breast cancer diagnosed from 2003 to 2005. Comparisons were made between white and black women as to sociodemographic characteristics and staging, using the chi-square test, and 10-year survival, using Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression methods. For the race/color variable, direct and indirect effects were estimated, mediated by staging, with adjustment for the socioeconomic status of the woman's area of residence and age, using the potential responses (counterfactual) model and Cox multiple regression. Black women living in low-income census tracts were more likely to use the public health care system and to be diagnosed at more advanced stages. Breast cancer-specific 10-year survival was 64.3% (95%CI: 60.0; 68.9), with a significant difference between whites (69.5%; 95%CI: 64.8; 74.6) and blacks (44; 95%CI: 35.2%; 55.1). In the multivariate models adjusted for income and age, black women had worse prognosis (HR = 2.09; 95%CI: 1.76; 2.51), and the proportion mediated by staging was 40% (95%CI: 37; 42). There is racial disparity in 10-year breast cancer survival in Brazilian women, mediated mainly by more advanced staging at diagnosis in black women. This highlights the need to expand both the coverage and the quality of breast cancer screening and to facilitate access to early diagnosis and treatment in order to reduce racial inequality.

Los objetivos fueron investigar la asociación entre raza/color y la supervivencia en 10 años de mujeres con cáncer de mama y el papel de la fase de desarrollo como mediador. Se trata de una cohorte hospitalaria de 481 mujeres, con cáncer invasivo de mama, diagnosticadas entre 2003 y 2005. Se realizaron comparaciones entre mujeres blancas y negras, en cuanto a las características sociodemográficas y a la fase del cáncer, usando el test chi-quadrado, y la supervivencia en 10 años, usando los métodos de Kaplan-Meier y regresión de Cox. Se estimaron para la variable raza/color efectos directos e indirectos, mediados por las diferentes fases, con ajuste en la condición social del área de residencia y edad, utilizando el modelo de respuestas potenciales (contrafactual) y regresión múltiple de Cox. Las mujeres negras residían en sectores censitarios de menor renta, eran usuarias del sector público en mayor proporción y fueron diagnosticadas en fases más avanzadas. La supervivencia específica en 10 años fue de un 64,3% (IC95%: 60,0; 68,9), con una diferencia significativa entre blancas (69,5%; IC95%: 64,8%-74,6%) y negras (44%; IC95%: 35,2; 55,1). En los modelos múltiples, ajustados para renta y edad, las negras tuvieron un peor pronóstico (HR = 2,09; IC95%: 1,76-2,51), y la proporción mediada por el estadio fue de un 40% (IC95%: 37; 42). Existe disparidad racial en la supervivencia del cáncer de mama en 10 años, mediada principalmente por el estadio más avanzado de la enfermedad en las mujeres negras. Esto apunta la necesidad de ampliar la cobertura y calidad del programa de rastreo de esa enfermedad y facilitar el acceso al diagnóstico y tratamiento precoces, con vistas a la reducción de la inequidad racial.

Câncer de mama metastático: aspectos clinicopatoló- gicos e sobrevida segundo o sítio de metástase / Metastatic breast cancer: clinicopathological features and survival according to the site of metastasis

Modelo do estudo: estudo de coorte retrospectivo. Objetivos: investigar aspectos clínicos, patológicos e sobrevida do câncer de mama metastático de acordo com o sítio acometido pela metástase, ósseo ou extraósseo. Metodologia: a população de estudo foi uma coorte de 124 mulheres com câncer de mama metastático atendidas em hospital de referência oncológica. A associação entre variáveis sociodemográficas, tumorais e relativas ao tratamento e o sítio de metástase foi verificada através do teste qui-quadrado e as funções de sobrevida foram estimadas pelo método de Kaplan-Meier. Resultados: verificou-se metástase óssea isolada em 26,6% das pacientes e metástase extraóssea isolada em 45,2%, sendo que o restante exibiu metástases em ambos os sítios. Entre as pacientes com metástase óssea isolada, 68,2% utilizaram hormonioterapia, em relação a 44,9% daquelas com metástase extraóssea (p=0,06); tumores com receptor de progesterona positivo foram observados em 63,6% e 43,3% das pacientes em cada grupo (óssea isolada versus extraóssea), respectivamente (p=0,09). A sobrevida global em cinco anos foi 38,5% (IC95%: 18,6-58,2) para as pacientes com metástase óssea isolada e 24,8% (IC95%: 15,2-35,7) para aquelas com metástase extraóssea. Já o tempo médio de sobrevida após o diagnóstico de metástase foi de 19,6 meses nos casos de metástase óssea isolada e 12,1 meses naqueles com envolvimento extraósseo. Conclusões: a presença de positividade hormonal e o uso de hormonioterapia parecem estar associados a maior ocorrência de metástase óssea isolada, que, por sua vez, sinaliza para maior tempo de sobrevida em relação à metástase extraóssea (AU)

Study design: retrospective cohort study. Objectives: investigate clinical and pathological features, as well as the survival of metastatic breast cancer according to the site affected by the metastasis, osseous or extraosseous. Methods: the study population consisted of a cohort of 124 women with metastatic breast cancer assisted in an oncology referral hospital. The association between sociodemographic, tumoral and treatment variables and the site of metastasis was assessed with a chi-square test and the survival functions were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: osseous-only metastasis was observed in 26.6% of patients and extra-osseous metastasis in 45.2%, the remainder presented metastasis in both sites. Among patients with osseous-only metastasis, 68.2% had been treated with hormonal therapy, compared with 44.9% of those with extraosseous metastasis (p=0.06); progesterone receptor­positive tumors were found in 63.6% and 43.3% of the patients in each group (osseous-only versus extraosseous), respectively (p=0.09). Overall 5-years survival rate was 38.5% (CI95%: 18.6-58.2) for patients with osseous-only metastasis and 24.8% (CI95%: 15.2-35.7) for patients with extraosseous metastasis. The mean survival time after the diagnosis of metastasis was 19.6 months in cases of bone-only metastasis and 12.1 in extraosseous metastasis. Conclusions: hormone receptor positivity and use of hormone therapy seem to be associated with the occurrence of isolated bone metastasis; patients within this group were suggested to have longer survival times. (AU)

Sobrevida de dez anos e fatores prognósticos para o câncer de mama na região Sudeste do Brasil / Ten-year survival and prognostic factors for breast cancer in the southeast region of Brazil

RESUMO: Introdução: O câncer de mama é um importante problema de saúde pública em diversas partes do mundo, apresentando relevante incidência e sendo considerado uma das principais causas de óbito por câncer no sexo feminino. Objetivo: Analisar a sobrevida de dez anos e os fatores prognósticos em mulheres com câncer de mama invasivo. Métodos: A coorte foi composta de 195 mulheres assistidas em centro de referência oncológica no município de Juiz de Fora, no estado de Minas Gerais, com diagnóstico da doença em 2000 e 2001. Foram analisadas características sociodemográficas, tumorais e relacionadas à utilização do serviço de saúde e do tratamento. O método Kaplan-Meier foi utilizado para estimar as funções de sobrevida e o modelo de riscos proporcionais de Cox para avaliação dos fatores prognósticos. Resultados: A sobrevida de dez anos após o diagnóstico foi de 56,3%. Os principais fatores prognósticos independentes associados ao aumento do risco de óbito foram tamanho de tumor > 2,0 cm (razão de risco - HR = 1,9; intervalo de confiança - IC95% 1,0-3,2) e presença de linfonodos comprometidos (HR = 3,7; IC95% 2,1-5,9). Conclusão: Os achados reforçam a necessidade da adoção de medidas que assegurem o acesso da população-alvo às modalidades diagnósticas e terapêuticas preconizadas, contribuindo para que sejam alcançados diagnósticos mais precoces e maior tempo de sobrevida.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Breast cancer is an important public health issue in many parts of the world. Thus, it shows relevant incidence and is considered one of the main causes of death from cancer among women. Objective: To analyze ten-year survival and prognostic factors in women with invasive breast cancer. Methods: The cohort was composed of 195 women assisted in an oncology referral center in the municipality of Juiz de Fora, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, who were diagnosed with the disease in 2000 and 2001. Sociodemographic, tumoral, health service, and treatment-related characteristics were analyzed. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the survival functions and the Cox model of proportional hazards for the evaluation of prognostic factors. Results: The ten-year survival after diagnosis was of 56.3%. The major independent prognostic factors associated with increased risk of death were tumor size > 2.0 cm (hazard ratio - HR = 1.9; confidence interval - 95%CI 1.0 - 3.2) and presence of compromised lymph nodes (HR = 3.7; 95%CI 2.1 - 5.9). Conclusion: These findings reinforce the need of adopting actions that ensure access of the target population to the recommended diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, thus contributing to achieve earlier diagnosis and better survival rates.

Disease-free survival in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer / Sobrevida livre de doença em pacientes com câncer de mama não metastático

SUMMARY Introduction: Breast cancer is the second most common malignancy in the world and the one with highest incidence in the female population; it is also a major cause of death from cancer among women. Objective: To analyze the disease-free survival (DFS) at 5 years and prognostic factors in women with non-metastatic invasive breast cancer treated at a referral center for cancer care located in a medium-sized city in the Southeast of Brazil. Method: Patients diagnosed with the disease between 2003 and 2005 and identified through the institution’s cancer hospital records were analyzed. The follow-up of cases was carried out through hospital records, and complemented by search in the database of the Mortality Information System (SIM) as well as telephone contact. The variables analyzed were distributed in the following blocks: socio-demographic data, tumor-related characteristics, and treatment-related characteristics. Survival functions were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and the prognostic factors were analyzed based on Cox proportional hazard model. Results: The study showed a DFS at 5 years of 72% (95CI 67.6-75.9). The main variables independently associated with DFS were lymph node involvement, use of hormone therapy, and education level. Conclusion: This study reinforces the importance of early diagnosis for DFS, pointing to the role of social aspects in this regard. The relevance of this research in the country is also highlighted, given the scarcity of studies on DFS in the Brazilian population.

RESUMO Introdução: o câncer de mama é o segundo mais frequente no mundo e o de maior incidência na população feminina, além de ser uma das principais causas de óbito por câncer em mulheres. Objetivo: analisar a sobrevida livre de doença (SLD) em 5 anos e fatores prognósticos em mulheres com câncer de mama invasivo não metastático tratadas em centro de referência em assistência oncológica de cidade de porte médio da região Sudeste do Brasil. Método: foram analisadas as pacientes diagnosticadas com a doença entre 2003 e 2005, identificadas por meio do registro hospitalar de câncer da instituição. O seguimento dos casos foi realizado por meio de consulta aos prontuários, complementada por busca no banco do Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade (SIM) e contato telefônico. As variáveis analisadas foram distribuídas nos seguintes blocos: sociodemográficas, características relativas ao tumor e características relativas ao tratamento. As funções de sobrevida foram calculadas por meio do método de Kaplan-Meier. O modelo de riscos proporcionais de Cox foi utilizado para avaliação dos fatores prognósticos. Resultados: o estudo mostrou uma SLD em 5 anos de 72% (IC95%: 67,6-75,9). As principais variáveis associadas à SLD, de forma independente, foram o comprometimento linfonodal, a realização de hormonioterapia e o nível de escolaridade. Conclusão: este estudo reforça a importância do diagnóstico precoce para a SLD, apontando para o papel de aspectos sociais. Destaca-se a relevância desta pesquisa haja vista a escassez de estudos a respeito de SLD na população brasileira.

Disease-free survival in patients with non-metastatic breast cancer.

INTRODUCTION: Breast cancer is the second most common malignancy in the world and the one with highest incidence in the female population; it is also a major cause of death from cancer among women. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the disease-free survival (DFS) at 5 years and prognostic factors in women with non-metastatic invasive breast cancer treated at a referral center for cancer care located in a medium-sized city in the Southeast of Brazil. METHOD: Patients diagnosed with the disease between 2003 and 2005 and identified through the institution's cancer hospital records were analyzed. The follow-up of cases was carried out through hospital records, and complemented by search in the database of the Mortality Information System (SIM) as well as telephone contact. The variables analyzed were distributed in the following blocks: socio-demographic data, tumor-related characteristics, and treatment-related characteristics. Survival functions were calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method and the prognostic factors were analyzed based on Cox proportional hazard model. RESULTS: The study showed a DFS at 5 years of 72% (95CI 67.6-75.9). The main variables independently associated with DFS were lymph node involvement, use of hormone therapy, and education level. CONCLUSION: This study reinforces the importance of early diagnosis for DFS, pointing to the role of social aspects in this regard. The relevance of this research in the country is also highlighted, given the scarcity of studies on DFS in the Brazilian population.

Ten-year survival and prognostic factors for breast cancer in the southeast region of Brazil. / Sobrevida de dez anos e fatores prognósticos para o câncer de mama na região Sudeste do Brasil.

INTRODUCTION:: Breast cancer is an important public health issue in many parts of the world. Thus, it shows relevant incidence and is considered one of the main causes of death from cancer among women. OBJECTIVE:: To analyze ten-year survival and prognostic factors in women with invasive breast cancer. METHODS:: The cohort was composed of 195 women assisted in an oncology referral center in the municipality of Juiz de Fora, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, who were diagnosed with the disease in 2000 and 2001. Sociodemographic, tumoral, health service, and treatment-related characteristics were analyzed. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the survival functions and the Cox model of proportional hazards for the evaluation of prognostic factors. RESULTS:: The ten-year survival after diagnosis was of 56.3%. The major independent prognostic factors associated with increased risk of death were tumor size > 2.0 cm (hazard ratio - HR = 1.9; confidence interval - 95%CI 1.0 - 3.2) and presence of compromised lymph nodes (HR = 3.7; 95%CI 2.1 - 5.9). CONCLUSION:: These findings reinforce the need of adopting actions that ensure access of the target population to the recommended diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, thus contributing to achieve earlier diagnosis and better survival rates.

Breast cancer survival and health iniquities.

Breast cancer is the most frequent neoplasm in women, and some studies have shown social inequalities in incidence and survival, which are poorly investigated in Brazil. To assess iniquity in prognosis, a hospital-based cohort study was carried out. Follow-up was made by active search in medical records and in the Mortality Information System, phone calls, and consultation on Individual Tax-Collection Record status. Survival functions were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method, and the Cox proportional hazards model was employed for prognostic assessment. Disease-specific survival was estimated at 76.3% (95%CI: 71.9-81.0) in 5 years. Women seen at public facilities had worse prognosis (HR = 1.79; 95%CI: 1.09-2.94), which was particularly due to the disease being diagnosed at a more advanced stage. These findings point to inequalities of access to screening actions, as women of lower social conditions with later diagnostic and therefore with worse prognostic.

Sobrevida por câncer de mama e iniquidade em saúde / La supervivencia del cáncer de mama y la inequidad en salud / Breast cancer survival and health iniquities

O câncer de mama é a neoplasia mais frequente em mulheres e alguns estudos mostram desigualdades sociais na sua incidência e sobrevida, o que é pouco estudado no Brasil. Para avaliar a iniquidade no seu prognóstico, foi feito estudo de coorte hospitalar. O seguimento foi realizado por busca ativa nos registros médicos e Sistema de Informação sobre Mortalidade, contato telefônico e consulta de situação cadastral no Cadastro de Pessoas Físicas. As funções de sobrevida foram estimadas pelo método de Kaplan-Meier e o modelo de riscos proporcionais de Cox foi utilizado para avaliação prognóstica. Foi estimada uma sobrevida específica pela doença de 76,3% (IC95%: 71,9-81,0) em 5 anos. As mulheres atendidas no serviço público tiveram pior prognóstico (HR = 1,79; IC95%: 1,09-2,94), e tal efeito foi mediado, sobretudo, pelo estadiamento da doença mais avançado no momento do diagnóstico. Tais achados apontam para a existência de desigualdades de acesso a ações de rastreamento, com as mulheres de menor posição socioeconômica tendo diagnóstico mais tardio e consequentemente pior prognóstico.

Algunos estudios muestran desigualdades sociales en la incidencia y la supervivencia del cáncer de mama, lo que se ha estudiado poco en Brasil. Para evaluar la inequidad en el pronóstico del cáncer de mama, se realizó un estudio de cohorte de base hospitalaria. El seguimiento de los pacientes se llevó a cabo por medio de una búsqueda activa en los registros médicos y en el Sistema Nacional de Mortalidad brasileño; llamadas de teléfono y búsqueda de números de identificación nacionales. Las funciones de supervivencia fueron estimadas por el método de Kaplan-Meier y el modelo de riesgos proporcionales de Cox se utilizó para la evaluación pronóstica. La supervivencia específica del cáncer de mama en cinco años fue de un 76,3% (IC95%: 71,9-81,0). Las mujeres que recibieron asistencia en los servicios públicos tenían peor pronóstico (HR = 1,79; IC95%: 1,09 a 2,94), y este efecto fue medido principalmente por el estadio de la enfermedad más avanzada en el momento del diagnóstico. Estos resultados apuntan a la existencia de desigualdades en el acceso a las acciones de detección del cáncer de mama.

Breast cancer is the most frequent neoplasm in women, and some studies have shown social inequalities in incidence and survival, which are poorly investigated in Brazil. To assess iniquity in prognosis, a hospital-based cohort study was carried out. Follow-up was made by active search in medical records and in the Mortality Information System, phone calls, and consultation on Individual Tax-Collection Record status. Survival functions were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method, and the Cox proportional hazards model was employed for prognostic assessment. Disease-specific survival was estimated at 76.3% (95%CI: 71.9-81.0) in 5 years. Women seen at public facilities had worse prognosis (HR = 1.79; 95%CI: 1.09-2.94), which was particularly due to the disease being diagnosed at a more advanced stage. These findings point to inequalities of access to screening actions, as women of lower social conditions with later diagnostic and therefore with worse prognostic.

Immunohistochemical profile and clinical-pathological variables in breast cancer.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the main characteristics of women with breast cancer, according to the immunohistochemical profile. METHODS: The population comprised a hospital cohort, consisting of women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2003 and 2005 (n = 601) and treated at a referral center for cancer care in Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil. Only 397 women who had complete immunohistochemistry analysis were selected. To define the groups according to the immunohistochemical profile, the assessment of estrogen and progesterone receptors, Ki-67 cell proliferation index, and overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) was chosen. According to the different phenotypes, five subtypes were defined: luminal A, luminal B HER2 negative, luminal B HER2 positive, triple negative, and HER2 overexpression. RESULTS: Most patients were white (80.7%) and post-menopausal (64.9%), with a mean age of 57.4 years (± 13.5). At diagnosis, 57.5% had tumor size > 2.0 cm, and 41.7% had lymph node involvement. The most common subtypes were luminal B - HER2 negative (41.8%) and triple negative (24.2%). In the luminal A subtype, 72.1% of patients were post-menopausal, while the highest percentage of premenopausal women were observed in the luminal B - HER2 positive and triple negative subtypes (45.2% and 44.2%, respectively). A higher frequency of tumors > 2.0 cm and lymph node involvement was observed in triple negative and HER2 positive subtypes. CONCLUSION: This study allowed the distribution assessment of the main clinical and pathological characteristics and those related to health services in a cohort of Brazilian women with breast cancer, according to the immunohistochemical tumor subtypes.

Perfil imuno-histoquímico e variáveis clinicopatológicas no câncer de mama / Immunohistochemical profile and clinical-pathological variables in breast cancer

OBJETIVO: Descrever as principais características em mulheres com câncer de mama, de acordo com o perfil imuno-histoquímico. MÉTODOS: A população foi composta a partir de coorte hospitalar formada por mulheres com diagnóstico de câncer de mama efetuado entre 2003 e 2005 (n = 601) e atendidas em centro de referência em assistência oncológica de Juiz de Fora-MG. Foram selecionadas apenas 397 mulheres que possuíam imunohistoquímica completa. Para definição dos grupos segundo perfil imuno-histoquímico, optou-se por classificação baseada na avaliação dos receptores de estrógeno e de progesterona, índice de proliferação celular Ki67 e superexpressão de HER2. De acordo com os diferentes fenótipos, foram definidos cinco subtipos: luminal A, luminal B-HER2 negativo, luminal B-HER2 positivo, triplo negativo e HER2 superexpresso. RESULTADOS: A maioria dos pacientes tinha pele branca (80,7%) e era pós-menopausada (64,9%), com idade média de 57,4 anos (±13,5). Ao diagnóstico, 57,5% delas tinha tumor de tamanho > 2,0 cm, e 41,7% exibiam comprometimento linfonodal. Os subtipos mais frequentes foram luminal B-HER2 negativo (41,8%) e triplo negativo (24,2%). No subtipo luminal A, 72,1% das pacientes eram pós-menopausadas, enquanto que os maiores percentuais na pré-menopausa foram observados nos subtipos luminal B-HER2 positivo e triplo negativo (45,2% e 44,2%, respectivamente). Verificou-se maior frequência de tumores > 2,0 cm e com linfonodos comprometidos nos subtipos triplo negativo e HER2 positivo. CONCLUSÃO: Esta pesquisa possibilitou avaliar a distribuição das principais características clinicopatológicas e relacionadas aos serviços de saúde em coorte de mulheres brasileiras com câncer de mama, segundo os subtipos tumorais imuno-histoquímicos.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the main characteristics of women with breast cancer, according to the immunohistochemical profile. METHODS: The population comprised a hospital cohort, consisting of women diagnosed with breast cancer between 2003 and 2005 (n = 601) and treated at a referral center for cancer care in Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil. Only 397 women who had complete immunohistochemistry analysis were selected. To define the groups according to the immunohistochemical profile, the assessment of estrogen and progesterone receptors, Ki-67 cell proliferation index, and overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) was chosen. According to the different phenotypes, five subtypes were defined: luminal A, luminal B HER2 negative, luminal B HER2 positive, triple negative, and HER2 overexpression. RESULTS: Most patients were white (80.7%) and post-menopausal (64.9%), with a mean age of 57.4 years (± 13.5). At diagnosis, 57.5% had tumor size > 2.0 cm, and 41.7% had lymph node involvement. The most common subtypes were luminal B - HER2 negative (41.8%) and triple negative (24.2%). In the luminal A subtype, 72.1% of patients were post-menopausal, while the highest percentage of premenopausal women were observed in the luminal B - HER2 positive and triple negative subtypes (45.2% and 44.2%, respectively). A higher frequency of tumors > 2.0 cm and lymph node involvement was observed in triple negative and HER2 positive subtypes. CONCLUSION: This study allowed the distribution assessment of the main clinical and pathological characteristics and those related to health services in a cohort of Brazilian women with breast cancer, according to the immunohistochemical tumor subtypes.

[Five-year survival and prognostic factors in a cohort of breast cancer patients treated in Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais State, Brazil]. / Sobrevida de cinco anos e fatores prognósticos em coorte de pacientes com câncer de mama assistidas em Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brasil.

The purpose of this study was to analyze five-year survival and the main prognostic factors among women with invasive breast cancer diagnosed from 1998 to 2000 that had undergone surgical treatment in the city of Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Study variables were: age, skin color, place of residence, tumor-related variables, and treatment-related variables. Survival functions were calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method, and multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazard model. Disease-specific survival was 81.8%. Tumor size and lymph node involvement were the main independent prognostic factors in the study population, with increased risk of death for women with tumor size greater than 2.0 cm (HR = 1.97; 95%CI: 1.26-3.07) and positive axillary lymph nodes (HR = 4.04; 95%CI: 2.55-6.39). The results emphasize the need for earlier diagnosis and treatment. Access to screening at different levels of care, mainly for women at high risk, should be a key priority for the Unified National Health System in Brazil.