Female gender, age, obesity, menarche (under 12 years of age), and radiation therapy to the chest or breasts are the main factors for breast cancer (BC) development
[20][21][22]. One prevalent major risk factor among women was found to be overweight. In addition, menarche, contact with radiation to the chest or face, and age under 40 years were identified as major risk factors among Bangladeshi women. Family history is also a predominant factor in breast cancer
[23]. The tendency to avoid breastfeeding and the changing reproductive system may increase the risk of breast cancer
[24]. With the lack of accessibility to a hospital and the cost of diagnosis, many women are unwilling to seek a diagnosis due to their socio-economic status. Improper treatment, poverty, and late diagnosis are also contributing factors
[25][26]. A report published by NICRH indicated that illiterate housewives were highly prone to be affected by breast cancer. Women living in urban areas are different from women in rural areas in their reproductive behavior; they are reluctant to marry, have children, or breastfeed
[27]. The use of chemicals in dermatological products and crop production and bisphenol A in plastic materials is changing the secretion of estrogen, also leading to breast cancer development
[26].
3.1. Prevalence of Breast Cancer
The incidence of breast cancer in developing countries is increasing significantly day by day. It has been estimated that more than 1.67 million people were identified as breast cancer patients
[28], especially premenopausal women
[29]. One of the biggest cancer-based hospitals in Bangladesh is the National Institute of Cancer Research and Hospital (NICRH). The hospital conducted a study from 2005–2010 among 5255 breast cancer patients in different age groups, from 15 to 94 years . More than 56% of women were affected at reproductive age, between 15 and 44 years
[30][31]. The incidence is higher due to a lack of awareness, and in most cases, women are affected at a young age
[32]. The most common anti-cancer drugs prescribed for breast cancer are carboplatin, 5-fluorouracil, docetaxel, and doxorubicin, according to data obtained from different pharmacies in Dhaka city
[11].