Does Epstein-Barr Virus Contribute to Breast Cancer Risk Worldwide? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Introduction: Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer among women worldwide, accounting for over 2.3 million new cases annually. Recent evidence suggests Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may play a role in its pathogenesis. Given EBV's known oncogenic potential, this study investigates the prevalence and possible role of EBV in BC pathogenesis.
Methods: Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted to estimate raw proportions and risk ratio (RR), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was assessed using I². Statistical significance was set at P < .05. Analyses were performed in R 4.2.3 RESULTS: Our meta-analysis included 57 studies, comprising a total of 5,133 BC tissues to analyze the presence of EBV. Our analysis revealed a prevalence of 25% (95% CI: 21%-30%) of EBV in BC tissues. In the analysis by continent, Europe, Africa, and Oceania showed a similar proportion of 33%. Regarding the risk of EBV in BC tissues compared to healthy controls, the analysis identified a statistically significant difference, presenting higher risk of EBV in the BC group (RR: 3.35; P < .001). South America showed the highest and significant RR of 12.34 (P = .007) among the continents. Subgroup analysis by income revealed that the low-income-group exhibited the highest EBV prevalence (44%; 95% CI: 28%-61%). According to the subtype BC analysis, triple-negative BC exhibited the highest EBV prevalence (30%; 95% CI: 19%-44%).
Conclusion: This meta-analysis underscores the global prevalence…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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