Breast cancer is one of the most common cancer diagnosis and high mortality rates in women worldwide, in particular with higher incidence in Eastern European countries, Asia and Latin America. Its impact transcends the physical aspect and also affects the social and psychological of these women, generating dysfunctional affective states (depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal behavior) that affect their quality of life. The literature reports that suicide in cancer patients is 2 times higher than in the general population, recognizing vulnerable groups in patients with breast cancer. Objective: To review the scientific literature produced between 2002 - 2012, on suicide risk factors in women with breast cancer. Method: We reviewed 121 papers obtained in specialized databases. Results: In effect, these women have risk factors for suicide (race, medical and psychiatric comorbidity, fear of recurrence, advanced stages of the disease, changes in body image, changes in social role and treatment side effects cancer). Conclusions: During the course of the disease are various biological, psychological and social factors that can lead to suicidal ideation or intent. Therefore, it is necessary to incorporate in the psychological care of women with breast cancer and intervention assessment of suicidal behavior and continue to deepen the study of this phenomenon whose effects are deleterious to the well-being of cancer patients.
