TITLE:
Factors Associated with Breast Cancer among Patients Seen in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of the Borgou-Alibori Regional University Hospital, 2016-2022
AUTHORS:
Roger Klikpezo, Sèdjro Raoul Atadé, Bénedicte Ingrid Olowo, Beaudouin Jean-de-Dieu Edaye, Diane Djossa, Samia Bakary, Mahublo Vinadou Vodouhê, Dagbéssè Elysée Boko Dagoun, Rachidi Sidi Imorou, Awade Afoukou Achille Obossou, Fanny Maryline Nouessèwa Hounkponou Ahouingnan, René Xavier Perrin, Kabibou Salifou
KEYWORDS:
Breast Cancer, Risk Factors, CHUD-B/A, Benin
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Vol.16 No.5,
May
26,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Breast cancer represents a growing public health concern in Benin, warranting a more rigorous characterization of its associated risk factors. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional analytical study with retrospective data collection, covering the period January 2016 to December 2022 at the Borgou-Alibori Regional University Hospital (CHUD-B/A). All patients admitted for breast-related complaints were enrolled according to predefined inclusion criteria. Data were collected using KoboCollect and analyzed with Epi Info 7.2.2.6, employing appropriate statistical tests to evaluate associations between exposures and the outcome of interest. Results: Breast pain was the primary presenting complaint in 65% of patients. Breast cancer was significantly associated with age over 30 years, tobacco use (aPR = 2.21; p = 0.002), advanced age at first pregnancy (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.92; p = 0.005), and a history of breastfeeding, which was associated with a substantially reduced likelihood of breast cancer diagnosis (aPR = 0.18; p = 0.004). Breast ultrasound was the most frequently performed investigation (62.5%), and metastatic disease constituted the predominant histological presentation (56.41%). Loss to follow-up affected 92.31% of patients, and none received chemotherapy. Conclusion: Among patients presenting with breast-related complaints at CHUD-B/A, breast cancer diagnosis was associated with older age, tobacco use, later age at first pregnancy, and absence of breastfeeding. The very high loss to follow-up and absence of chemotherapy point to urgent gaps in the local oncology care pathway. Strengthening early detection at the primary level, structured referral, and continuity of oncological treatment should be prioritized.