Who is primarily affected by duct ectasia?

Duct ectasia primarily affects menopausal women, which is correct because this condition is closely associated with hormonal changes that occur during and after the menopausal transition. During menopause, the levels of estrogen and progesterone decline, which can lead to changes in the breast tissue and ducts, making them more susceptible to obstruction and inflammation.

In menopausal women, the reduction in hormone levels results in alterations in breast tissue composition, including a decrease in glandular structures and an increase in fibrous tissue. This can lead to the dilation of the ducts and the accumulation of secretions, which is characteristic of duct ectasia. The condition may present with symptoms such as discharge from the nipple or localized breast pain.

This condition is less common in teenage girls and young adults, as their breast tissue is typically more dense and glandular, and they are less likely to undergo the ductal changes associated with menopause. While pregnant women may experience a variety of breast changes due to hormonal fluctuations, duct ectasia is not primarily diagnosed in this population either. Thus, menopausal women are the group predominantly affected by duct ectasia due to the specific hormonal and structural changes that occur during this life stage.