Mastalgia: Characteristics and associated factors in Thai Women

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to identify the clinical presentation, natural history, severity and associated factors in Thai women presented with mastalgia. Material and Method: One hundred and five Thai women with breast pain who visited HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Medical Center were interviewed with breast pain. The data about socio-economic status, sign and symptoms of breast pain, associated factors, mental status and quality of life at first presentation and 6-12 months afterward were collected. Results: In 105 Thai women who present with mastalgia, the pain was associated with menstrual cycle, around 70 percents. Both cyclic and non-cyclic mastalgia patients had similar characteristics as type, intensity and location. There were no differences in caffeine and high-fat food intake between mild and severe mastalgia. In twenty-seven percent of patients who had severe breast pain, the pain affected their work, sleeping and daily entertainment. Though the pain did not influence mental status, it affected some part of quality of life such as a part of bodily pain, social function and mental health. At second follow-up, 80 patients had decreased severity and intensity of pain. The mental status and quality of life evaluations were statistically significant. Conclusion: The results showed that most mastalgia was associated with menstruation. Diet showed no definitive association with breast pain severity and severe mastalgia influenced patients’ daily activity and quality of life. © 2015, Medical Association of Thailand. All rights reserved.