Abstract
The increase
in life expectancy worldwide has resulted in a greater prevalence of
chronic non-communicable diseases. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence
and factors associated with the occurrence of cancer among Brazilian
women over the age of 50. A cross-sectional study with 622 women over the age
of 50 was performed using a population survey. The outcome variable was the
occurrence of a malignant tumor in any location. The independent variables were
sociodemographic characteristics, self-perception of health, health-related
habits and morbidities. Statistical analysis was carried out using the
chi-square test and Poisson regression. The mean age of the women was 64.1
years. The prevalence of cancer was 6.8%. The main sites of
occurrence of malignant tumors were the breast (31.9%), colorectal (12.7%) and
skin (12.7%). In the final statistical model, the only factor associated
with cancer was smoking > 15 cigarettes/day either currently or in
the past: PR 2.03 (95% CI 1.06-3.89). The results have improved understanding
of the prevalence and factors associated with cancer in Brazilian
women aged 50 years or more. They should be encouraged to maintain a
healthy lifestyle and pay particular attention to modifiable risk
factors such as smoking
