Document Type : Research Articles
Authors
1
Department of Chemical Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia.
2
Breast Cancer Awareness and Research Unit, Hospital Pakar Universiti Sains Malaysia, Health Campus, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan 16150, Malaysia.
3
Department of Family Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian 16150, Kelantan, Malaysia.
4
Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Al-Azhar University- Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine.
5
Department of Laboratory Medicine, Al Azhar University-Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine.
6
Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Islamic University of Gaza, Gaza City, Palestine.
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer (BC) continues to be one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide, predominantly affecting women. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is vital for cellular growth and metabolism. Dysregulation of IGF-1 has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. We hypothesized that unhealthy lifestyle factors (e.g., poor diet, low physical activity) are associated with higher serum IGF-1 levels and an increased risk of BC. This research examines the relationship between lifestyle factors, IGF-1, and BC risk in Palestinian women in the Gaza Strip. Methods: A case-control study was conducted with 112 newly diagnosed BC women and 222 healthy controls. Data were collected using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Food Frequency Questionnaire. IGF-1 levels were measured. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28. Results: BC patients had significantly lower physical activity than controls (58.9% vs. 44.6%, p = 0.014). Eight of the 14 food groups studied were linked to reduced BC risk, with reductions of 3.4% for fruit, 3.7% for meat, 5.6% for grains, 3.0% for low-fat dairy, 16.5% for nuts, 3.3% for snacks and sweets, and 5.5% for soups and sauces, while eggs increased risk by 12.5%. Drinks and beverages were positively correlated with IGF-1 levels (rp = 0.121, p = 0.027), suggesting that these factors may influence BC risk. Conclusion: Lifestyle factors, including diet and physical activity, influence IGF-1 levels and BC risk. Public health interventions promoting healthier lifestyles may help reduce BC risk.
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