Application of machine learning in breast cancer survival prediction using a multimethod approach

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers with an increasing trend in both incidence and mortality rates in Iran. Survival analysis is a pivotal measure in setting appropriate care plans. To the best of our knowledge, this study is pioneering in Iran, introducing a multi-method approach using a Deep Neural Network (DNN) and 11 conventional machine learning (ML) methods to predict the 5 year survival of women with breast cancer. Supplying data from two centers comprising a total of 2644 records and incorporating external validation further distinguishes the study. Thirty-four features were selected based on a literature review and common variables in both datasets. Feature selection was also performed using a p value criterion (