The impact of obesity, late parity, and alcohol consumption on breast density measured by mammography: a key associated variable of breast cancer risk

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women worldwide, with risk factors including obesity, late parity, and breast density. Obesity is associated with higher breast density, which not only increases the risk of breast cancer but also reduces the sensitivity of mammographic screening. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between BMI and breast density to identify potential predictors of increased breast cancer risk. This was an epidemiological, analytical, cross-sectional study. A total of 282 patients aged 40 to 65 years undergoing mammographic screening were included. Patients were divided into two cohorts based on BMI: normal BMI (< 25 kg/m 2 ) and overweight/obesity (≥ 25 kg/m 2 ). Breast density was classified according to the BI-RADS fifth edition. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 28, applying the Chi-square test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and logistic regression analysis to determine the associations between variables (p < 0.05). Obesity was significantly associated with extremely dense breasts (p < 0.001). Additionally, late parity (> 25 years) and alcohol consumption were identified as associated variables with high breast density (OR: 9.82, 95% CI: 1.08–89.06, p = 0.042 and OR: 4.60, 95% CI: 1.18–17.95, p = 0.028, respectively). Breast density was inversely correlated with age, with younger women exhibiting higher breast density (p < 0.001). Obesity, late parity, and alcohol consumption are significantly associated variables of extremely dense breasts, which may increase breast cancer risk. These findings highlight the need for targeted screening strategies and preventive interventions for women with high BMI and other risk factors. Further research in larger, diverse populations is recommended to strengthen these associations and inform public health policies.