In order to evaluate the distribution of selected risk factors for breast cancer among Teréna Indian women in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, two samples were interviewed, respectively, in 1995 (330 women from ten Indian villages) and 1997 (40 women from the Limão Verde village). Reproductive history, diet characteristics, and family and personal medical history were investigated and body mass index was measured. In the larger sample, mean age at menarche was 12.3 years (30% at 13 years old or later), 86% of women reported one or more pregnancies (42% reporting 5 or more), 71% reported three or more pregnancies, mean age at first pregnancy was 18.9 years (3.8% after 28 years), mean duration of breastfeeding was 84 months, and 70% reported menopause before age 50. Dietary pattern in the smaller sample revealed a high intake of fruits, vegetables, pasta, and tubers and scarce intake of red meat and chicken; 50 of the women (95% CI: 34.1-65.9) presented overweight (BMI 25-29) and 27% (95% CI: 15.1-44.1) obesity (BMI > 29).
Breast Neoplasms; South American Indians; Risk Factors
