Characteristics of breast cancer patients treated at a Honduran cancer center 2012-2023

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is a heterogeneous neoplasm with a growing incidence worldwide. According to the Global Cancer Observatory, in 2022 there were an estimated 2.3 million new cases worldwide and 666,000 deaths. In Honduras, it is the most common cancer, reporting 1,209 cases. Objective: To describe the characteristics of patients diagnosed with breast cancer treated at the cancer center “Emma Romero de Callejas”, 2012-2023. Method: Descriptive, retrospective study. For data collection, clinical records and death databases from the National Institute of Statistics and the CCERC tumor registry were used. Results: 56% were found within 46 to 65 years of age. The most common personal history was being older than 40 years, followed by use of oral contraceptives (OCPs) and having a family history of breast cancer. 37% (n=246) was classified as Luminal A, 22% (n=146) Triple Negative, 21% (n=137) Luminal B and 16% (n=105) HER2+ tumor marker. 62% (n=152/245) survived 5 years after breast cancer diagnosis. Discussion: According to the results, the most common characteristics included: having between 40 and 65 years of age, complete secondary school, single or married and the use of OCPs. Invasive ductal carcinoma, Luminal A and stage IIA were the most frequent. The most reported management was total mastectomy, adjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy, furthermore survival at 5 years.