Relationship Between Combined Hormonal Contraceptives and Breast Cancer

Abstract

In the most recent data collected, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. In 2014, 236,968 women were diagnosed with breast cancer and 41,211 died from breast cancer (“CDC - Breast Cancer Statistics,” 2017). Combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC) contain two hormones, estrogen and progestin (“CDC - Combined Hormonal Contraceptives - US SPR - Reproductive Health,” 2017). According to the CDC, the use of CHC is a risk factor for developing breast cancer (“CDC - What Are the Risk Factors for Breast Cancer?,” 2017). The purpose of this Evidence Based Practice Brief is to examine the relationship between women of reproductive age taking CHC and their risk for breast cancer in development later in life. In planning a patient’s care, the nurse can apply this information through understanding the potential risks and complications associated with CHC and brainstorm interventions accordingly. In the intervention phase of the nursing process, the nurse will be able to provide evidence-based education regarding the risks to patient health and assist patients in making an informed decision about which form of contraception (CHC or non-hormonal contraceptives) they would prefer to use. For a patient using CHC, the nurse will be able to provide education regarding screenings for breast cancer and interventions to lower her risks through lifestyle factors.