Background: Carcinoma breast, with its rising prevalence, is the cause for high
mortality all over the world. Obesity plays a vital part in spread and
development of cells of the tumour. It is a modifiable risk factor.
Thus, lifestyle modifications including modifications in diet and
increased physical activity may aid in weight loss induced alterations
associated with proliferation and aggressiveness of tumour cells,
their sensitivity to insulin and apoptotic ability. The present study aimed at
correlating Quetelet’s index (BMI) which is the most widely used indicator for
obesity with Nottingham Prognostic Index (NPI). Objectives: To analyse BMI
in determining proliferative potential and aggressiveness of tumour cells by
establishing its correlation with the NPI in Carcinoma Breast. Methods:
Prospective, observational, analytical and cross-sectional study, conducted
over 60 cases of carcinoma breast that underwent modified radical
mastectomy for duration of two years in the Department of Pathology in
coordination with the Department of General Surgery, AVBRH, Sawangi (M),
Wardha. BMI and the NPI were determined in each case and their correlation
was studied through a well-tabulated master chart. Results: Statistical analysis
was conducted using two tailed chi square test and Pearson’s correlation
coefficient. It was observed that significant association existed between BMI
and tumour size, lymph node stage, BR Grade and TNM stage. Statistically
significant correlation was established between BMI and NPI. Conclusion: This
correlation can be used to predict outcome of patients; thus, becoming an
adjunct in prognosis of breast carcinoma as well as to scheme out costeffective
strategies to reduce the plight of breast carcinoma.
Keywords: Carcinoma breast, BMI, NPI, Quetelet’s index, Obesity