Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
How common are mammary tumors in female dogs in the UK in 2016
By Varney, Danielle et al.·Published in The Veterinary record·2023·Royal Veterinary College, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Epidemiology of mammary tumours in bitches under veterinary care in the UK in 2016.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that mammary tumors are quite common in female dogs, with about 1,341 cases per 100,000 dogs each year in the UK. Breeds like Springer and Cocker Spaniels, Boxers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and Lhasa Apsos are at higher risk. Neutering (spaying) your dog can lower the chances of developing these tumors, while older dogs and those with a history of false pregnancies are more likely to be affected. This information can help pet owners understand the risks and consider preventive measures for their dogs.
People also search for: dog mammary tumor symptoms · spaying benefits for dogs · high-risk dog breeds for tumors
Abstract
BACKGROUND: There is limited information on the epidemiology of canine mammary tumours. This study aimed to estimate the incidence and risk factors for mammary tumours in UK bitches. METHODS: A nested case-control study was conducted within VetCompass to estimate the frequency and risk factors for clinically diagnosed mammary tumours during 2016 (VetCompass study). A second case-control study explored further breed associations for cases confirmed histopathologically compared to the VetCompass controls (laboratory study). Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate associations between risk factors and mammary tumours. RESULTS: The incidence of mammary tumours was 1340.7/100,000 per year (95% confidence interval: 1198.1-1483.3). A total of 222 clinical cases (VetCompass study) and 915 laboratory cases (laboratory study) were compared to 1515 VetCompass controls in the two analyses. In the VetCompass study, Springer and Cocker Spaniels, Boxers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Lhasa Apsos had increased odds of developing mammary tumours. Neutering was associated with reduced odds, while odds increased with increasing age and a history of pseudopregnancy. In the laboratory study, increasing age was associated with greater odds of mammary tumours, and the breeds most at risk were similar to those identified in the VetCompass study. LIMITATIONS: The timing of neutering was not consistently available. Comparing laboratory cases to VetCompass controls provided only exploratory evidence for the breed associations identified. CONCLUSIONS: The study provides an update on the frequency of canine mammary tumours.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37231594/