Researchers discovered that breast stem cells and their 'daughters' have a much longer lifespan than previously thought, actively maintaining breast tissue throughout life. This finding has implications for identifying the cells of origin of breast cancers and developing new treatment strategies.
A study suggests that moderate doses of radiation therapy to the unaffected breast can kill premalignant cells and reduce the risk of second breast cancers. The treatment could prevent tens of thousands of cases, according to researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
A double-blind, randomized trial found that anastrozole significantly reduced breast cancer incidence among postmenopausal women at high risk for developing the disease. The study showed a 53% reduction in breast cancer incidence with few side effects.
African-American women with high levels of HSET protein were three times more likely to have shorter overall survival, progression-free survival, and metastasis-free survival compared to those with lower levels. The study found that HSET represents a potential new biomarker for poor breast cancer outcomes in African-American women.
Research reveals that African-American college students are aware of the benefits of breast-feeding for infants, yet many hesitate due to social stigma and discomfort in public. The study suggests that early education and exposure can encourage positive attitudes towards breast-feeding among young Black women.
Research suggests that automated breast density measurement can predict breast cancer risk in younger women, with changes in breast density over time playing a significant role. Women under 50 are at high risk for density-associated breast cancer, and earlier mammogram screenings may be beneficial for those with denser breasts.
Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) led to reduced recall rates and an increase in cancer detection compared to digital mammography. The study found that DBT decreased the average recall rate by 1.62% and increased the cancer detection rate by 21.5%.
Researchers found that high cholesterol's metabolite, 27HC, mimics estrogen to drive breast cancer growth. Statins appear to reduce this effect, suggesting a link between dietary changes and breast cancer prevention. Human breast tumors express the enzyme making 27HC, which can promote tumor growth.
Researchers identified epigenetic alterations associated with the aging process in disease-free breast tissues, which are further altered in breast tumors. These changes may contribute to the development of breast cancer by increasing cancer risk.
Researchers discovered mutations in immunity genes in every breast cancer analyzed, suggesting an important role of immune system mutations in breast cancer development. The study's findings could lead to targeted prevention and therapy using vaccines or antiviral drugs.
Two studies on breast MRI usage found a significant increase in its use for diagnostic evaluations and screenings, particularly among high-risk women. The studies also revealed disparities in the use of breast MRI, with some groups receiving more frequent screening than others.
A large national study found that breast MRI screenings nearly tripled from 2005 to 2009, with a notable increase in high-risk women. Despite this progress, the study highlights areas for improvement in the use of breast MRI for risk-based screening.
Contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM) may not significantly increase life expectancy for women with early-stage breast cancer in one breast. A new decision-making model helps women weigh the benefits of CPM against its risks and potential impact on survival.
A new analysis by American Cancer Society researchers found that breast cancer incidence rates are converging between white and African-American women. Incidence rates increased among African Americans from 2006 to 2010, bringing their rates closer to those of white women, particularly among women aged 50-59 years.
Research finds high levels of Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP) in human breast tissue correlate with increased risk and spread of breast cancer. FMRP acts as a master regulator controlling aggressive cancer progression.
A new analysis confirms the importance of regular mammography screening in reducing breast cancer deaths, especially among younger women. The study found that 71% of confirmed breast cancer deaths occurred in the 20% of patients who did not receive annual mammograms.
A new study found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer among postmenopausal women, but the relationship varies depending on factors such as race/ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), and breast density. The study suggests that HRT may be used for some women without increasing thei...
A study using the BREAST-Q questionnaire found significant improvements in satisfaction, quality of life, sleep, and exercise after breast reduction surgery. The procedure also relieved pain and led to better overall quality of life, with improvements seen as little as six weeks after surgery.
Seventy percent of US plastic surgeons use fat grafting techniques for breast operations, with 88% using it for breast reconstruction. However, issues like mammography interference and unpredictable results are noted as potential obstacles.
African-American women with breast cancer are more likely to carry inherited genetic mutations that increase their risk for breast cancer. Genetic testing can help identify at-risk family members and provide personalized strategies for early detection and prevention.
Researchers at the University of Alberta have identified a genetic marker on chromosome 4 associated with sporadic breast cancer in Alberta women. The study, published in PLoS One, used DNA scans from over 7,200 women and found that those with sporadic breast cancer frequently carried this marker.
Women with cosmetic breast implants are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer and having poorer survival rates than those without implants. Researchers found a 26% increased risk of delayed diagnosis and a 38% greater risk of death from breast cancer among women with implants.
Researchers found that excess estrogen levels during pregnancy can silence the BRCA1 tumor suppressor gene, increasing breast cancer risk in daughters. Additionally, molecular abnormalities in the unfolded protein response pathway were also found to contribute to breast cancer risk.
The study found that many young black women with BRCA mutations do not receive genetic counseling or testing, despite meeting national guidelines. This may represent a missed clinical opportunity to reduce breast cancer incidence and mortality.
Researchers identified a set of genes associated with lipid metabolism that may help identify women at risk for hormone receptor-negative breast cancer. These genes were found to be overexpressed in the unaffected breasts of women with estrogen receptor-negative disease.
Researchers have discovered a set of genes that can predict which women are at high risk for estrogen-sensitive breast cancer, making it possible to identify potential beneficiaries of preventive drugs. The study identifies 13 genes associated with lipid or fat metabolism in women with hormone receptor-negative breast cancer.
A new study found that a commonly used breast cancer risk prediction model developed for African Americans tends to underestimate risk in certain subgroups, particularly those who first gave birth at an older age. The researchers conclude that a better risk model is needed for estrogen receptor-negative breast cancer, a subtype disprop...
A Wayne State University researcher has identified characteristics in benign breast disease associated with future cancer risk in African-American women. The study found that women with proliferative breast disease with atypia were three times as likely to develop breast cancer.
Researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center have developed an automated method to estimate mammographic breast density, a major risk factor for breast cancer. The new approach assesses the variation in grayscale values in mammograms, providing a viable, automated mammographic density measure that can be used in clinical settings.
A study of 20 cohort studies found that high fruit and vegetable intake was associated with a lower risk of estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) breast cancer. The results suggest that increasing vegetable consumption may help lower ER- breast cancer risk, which accounts for only 15-20% of breast cancers.
Researchers at LSUHSC have identified a new therapeutic target to block the function of Her2, a gene that promotes breast cancer progression and spread. The study also found that a novel protein called Nischarin regulates breast cancer cell migration and movement.
A study published in Breast Cancer Research and Treatment found that delaying childbirth for at least 15 years after the first menstrual period can reduce the risk of triple-negative breast cancer by up to 60%. Breastfeeding is also associated with a protective effect against this aggressive form of breast cancer.
A large study finds that post-menopausal breast cancer survivors are more likely to develop diabetes, with a significant association observed after chemotherapy. The risk increases over time, suggesting the need for closer monitoring and screening of these patients.
A study by Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center investigators found that most triple-negative breast cancer patients have multiple genetic mutations, despite treatment with chemotherapy. The research may provide targets for new therapies and shed light on the challenges of treating this form of cancer.
A groundbreaking clinical trial reveals that women with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer who take tamoxifen for 10 years have a lower risk of recurrence and mortality rate compared to those taking the drug for 5 years. This new finding may prompt patients to reconsider their treatment options, particularly premenopausal women.
Researchers at the UNM Cancer Center are studying GPER, a novel estrogen receptor, to develop potential therapies for breast cancer. By understanding how GPER influences tumor growth and metastasis, they aim to create more effective treatments that can reduce resistance to existing drugs.
Kornelia Polyak and Mina J. Bissell will receive the AACR Outstanding Investigator Award for Breast Cancer Research and Distinguished Lectureship, respectively. The symposium presents a balance of clinical, translational, and basic research on breast cancer.
A new study found a four-fold increase in breast cancer incidence among women with neurofibromatosis-1, prompting recommendations for earlier screening. The researchers suggest annual manual breast exams and mammograms beginning at age 40 for this high-risk population.
A recent study found that 70% of women with breast cancer have both breasts removed despite a very low risk of recurrence in the healthy breast. The study suggests that concern about recurrence drives the decision, but this procedure is often associated with higher morbidity and unnecessary complications.
A survey of women with dense breasts found that many would pursue additional screening if notified of their breast density. The study highlights the need for patient education regarding breast density and available alternative technologies to aid in screening.
A new breast imaging technology, tomosynthesis, significantly improves radiologists' diagnostic accuracy and reduces false positive recall rates when combined with standard digital mammography. The study found a 10.7% increase in diagnostic sensitivity and a 38.6% reduction in absolute recall rates.
The Marilyn B. Gula Mountains of Hope Foundation raised $100,000 for groundbreaking breast cancer research at TGen through its annual 'Cookin' for a Cure at Eddie's House.' The funds will focus on primary Luminal B breast cancer, one of the most difficult-to-treat subtypes, to determine genetic variables driving this type of cancer.
Researchers found that inhibiting PI3-kinase can convert BRCA-proficient triple-negative breast cancers into BRCA-deficient ones, making them sensitive to PARP inhibitors. This combination treatment showed promising results in preclinical studies and is now being tested in a clinical trial.
Researchers at George Mason University are conducting three trials to target breast cancer using a malarial drug called chloroquine. The trials aim to prevent the development of breast cancer in its early stages, reducing the risk of invasive cancer.
A study found gene polymorphisms in hormone metabolism and growth factor pathways associated with breast density, which increases breast cancer risk. Variants in genes like PRL, TNF, and SULT1A1/2 were linked to breast density in both hormone therapy users and non-users.
A study at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of ER/PR-negative breast cancer. Women who breastfed their children had no increased risk of this aggressive tumor subtype.
A study published in JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that HIV protease inhibitor Nelfinavir inhibits the growth of HER2-positive tumors in mice. The treatment uses a dosage regimen similar to that used for HIV patients, suggesting potential as an anticancer agent.
Professor Sidney Fu is studying small RNA biomarkers to develop a blood test for detecting early-stage breast cancer. His research aims to identify patients who will not benefit from aggressive treatments, saving them from unnecessary trauma and stress.
Researchers are developing a simple blood test to detect early signs of breast cancer, which could improve treatment and detection rates. The study aims to identify DNA markers consistent with cancer in blood samples from women attending breast screening clinics.
A retrospective study found that regular mammography screening can help eliminate the disparity in breast cancer mortality between black and white women. Women screened regularly were more likely to have hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, suggesting early detection can blunt negative prognostic biological characteristics.
The Cancer Genome Atlas study identifies four main breast cancer subtypes defined by PAM50, with diverse genetic and epigenetic alterations converging into these phenotypes. The study's findings advance understanding of breast cancer biology and support the use of PAM50 as a gold standard for categorizing breast cancer by subtype.
A team of researchers identified genetic causes of the most common form of breast cancer, Estrogen-Receptor positive Luminal A subtype, providing clues for new therapeutic targets. They also found a molecular similarity between basal-like breast cancers and high-grade serous ovarian tumors.
Researchers found that women with luminal A tumors, considered the least aggressive subtype, were at risk of death from breast cancer more than 10 years after diagnosis. The study highlights the importance of considering molecular subtypes in determining treatment options for women with breast cancer.
The 2012 Breast Cancer Symposium presents four major studies on the treatment of early breast cancer, confirming which patient populations benefit from screening interventions and surgical procedures. The research aims to improve treatment decisions and maximize benefits for patients.
A new survey conducted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons found that 89% of women want to see the results of breast reconstruction surgery before undergoing treatment for breast cancer. The ASPS is launching a campaign to educate women about their options and provide a platform for patients to share their experiences.
A study found that high mammographic breast density, a strong breast cancer risk factor, does not influence survival rates in breast cancer patients. However, low density was associated with increased risk of death among obese patients or those diagnosed with large tumors.
New human-derived breast cancer models retain heterogeneity, allowing researchers to test drugs more accurately. These models can help identify unique features in individual tumors, enabling targeted treatment.
A recent study in Pakistan found limited awareness of breast cancer among most women, with many unaware of self-breast exams and clinical breast exams. However, willingness to address health issues was high, and the majority of general practitioners understood major risk factors and importance of early detection.
A study found that women using fertility drugs had a reduced risk of breast cancer if they did not conceive a 10-plus week pregnancy, but an increased risk if they did. The study suggests that exposure to the drugs may raise risk by modifying breast tissue remodeling during pregnancy.
A study by 23andMe identified seven single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with breast size, including three linked to breast cancer. The analysis controlled for age, ancestry, and other factors, providing insight into the genetic factors underlying normal breast development.