Mastalgia: Characteristics and Associated Factors in Thai Women.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to identify the clinical presentation, natural history, severity and associatedfactors 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 diferences in caffeine and high-fat food intake between mild and severe mastalgia. In twenty-seven percent ofpatients 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 apart of bodily pain, socialfunction 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.