A Multinomial Logistic Regression Analysis to Study The Influence Of Residence And Socio-Economic Status On Breast Cancer Incidences In Southern Karnataka

Introduction: Breast Cancer is the commonest female cancer worldwide. NCRP indicates rising trends of breast cancer in India. Need to understand breast cancer burden among women in the society from different socio-economic background. Objectives: a) Is there a difference in the pattern of breast cancer cases in different socio-economic status with reference to their area of residence.b) Demonstrate the application of multinomial logistic regression analysis to examine the factors associated with breast cancer in high income, middle and low income families. Methodology: Breast Cancer cases reported to the Bharath Hospital and Institute of Oncology (BHIO) from 2007 to December 2011 were analysed. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive analysis like chi-square analysis and multinomial regression analysis is performed. Results: Out of the 909 breast cancer cases, 440 (48.2%) were from rural areas. In urban areas 64.8% belonged to middle income families whereas in rural areas 48.2% belonged to low income families. MLR analysis showed that Illiteracy, nulliparity, young women(< 40 years) belonging to nuclear families had higher odds of breast cancer in middle and low income families when compared to high income families.