Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Pakistani Women: A Review of Current Evidence

Abstract

The most reported malignancy in women of Pakistan is breast cancer. About one in nine females suffers from this disease, that contributes largely to mortality. The burden of the disease here is much more than in any other country of South Asia, with such salient features as earlier age of onset and late-stage presentation. This paper aimed to synthesize evidence from recent studies conducted in Pakistan on risk factors for breast cancer. Lifestyle determinants such as obesity, physically inactive or sedentary behavior, and unhealthy dietary patterns prove to be common and strongly associated with high risk. Genetic predisposition, particularly BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, plays a key role in increasing susceptibility among high-risk women. Additionally, reproductive factors such as early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity, and limited breastfeeding have been recognized as important contributors. In addition to urban pollution and dietary contaminants, environmental exposure also increases the risk; vitamin D deficiency could compound the disease further. Diagnosis gets late͏ and results get worse due to socioeconomic͏ and cultural barriers, low awareness, stigma, and low access to screening facilities. When compared with the regional population and even the global population, it can be seen that Pakistani women face some unique sociocultural challenges that make them more vulnerable. This review article demonstrates the immediate need for specific public health interventions, better genetic counseling infrastructure, and culturally appropriate mass awareness campaigns to lessen the breast cancer burden at a national level. Identifying key risk factors and leveraging artificial intelligence (AI)-driven technologies can improve prevention strategies and facilitate early detection.