Survival Analysis in Breast Cancer Patients: Exploring the Determining Factors

Abstract

Cancer is a complex and diverse disease characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells. Breast cancer, among its various types such as ductal, lobular, medullary, mucinous, tubular ductal, or inflammatory, can present in various stages, from localized to advanced, with potential for metastasis. There are several risk factors associated with the development of this disease, which can be categorized as high or low risk.  This study aimed to analyze the survival of patients diagnosed with breast cancer, focusing on identifying the factors that influence and represent risks to this survival. An integrative literature review was conducted, covering scientific articles published between 2019 and 2023. The reviewed studies, conducted in different countries and periods, with diverse variables, indicated that advanced stage of the disease, presence of lymph node metastases, and tumor grade are the main prognostic factors impacting the survival of breast cancer patients. The relationship between survival, disease stage, and socioeconomic deprivation can vary significantly depending on the country and healthcare system. Therefore, further research is needed, both at local and national levels, to evaluate the quality of healthcare provided to this population group in Brazil.