OBJECTIVE: To compare the lifestyle related risk factors for breast cancer such as physical activity, cigarette smoking, the use of contraceptive pills and increased body weight between non-familial and familial breast cancer females in Jordan.

METHODS: This study was carried out in the Kingdom of Jordan during the period 2000 through to 2002. A questionnaire was used to collect information from 99 females who were histologically and pathologically diagnosed for breast cancer. Data of the questionnaire was entered and analyzed using statistical package for social sciences.

RESULTS: This study showed no significant difference between familial, non-familial breast cancer females and controls in the following risk factors: physical activity, contraceptive methods, and smoking. On the other hand, a statistically significant difference in weight was found between the familial breast cancer females, the total breast cancer females and the controls. In addition, the highest percentage of overweight and obese was found among postmenopausal breast cancer females.

CONCLUSION: Postmenopausal obesity is a significant risk factor among Jordanian breast cancer females.