The prevalence of benign breast disease in the Ural Federal District

Objective: To investigate the epidemiological situation regarding the incidence and prevalence of benign breast disease (BBD) among women in the Ural Federal District (UFD) between 2012 and 2021.

Materials and methods: This descriptive epidemiological study analyzed the incidence and prevalence of BBD in the UFD from 2012 to 2021. The study included adult women, including those older than working age.

Results: From 2012 to 2019, an increase in the incidence and prevalence of BBD was observed among adult women in the UFD. The average growth rates (AGR) of incidence and prevalence were 3.37% and 5.29%, respectively. During the same period, the incidence of BBD in women beyond working age showed a moderate upward trend and higher prevalence. The AGR was 1.91% and 6.03%, respectively. However, 2020–2021 witnessed a significant decrease in these indicators, with a negative AGR. This decline can be attributed to restrictive measures, suspended medical care, decreased preventive examinations, outpatient medical supervision, and outpatient care owing to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusion: This study of the dynamics of BBD incidence and prevalence among adult women in the UFD from 2012 to 2021 provides valuable information for understanding the factors contributing to the pre-pandemic growth of these indicators. This knowledge can aid in the future planning and improvement of medical care, particularly with the aim of enhancing the quality of life of patients. It is important to consider regional characteristics, including sparsely populated and rural areas, when implementing such plans.

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