Researchers from the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL),the Catalan Institute of Oncology (ICO) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) conducted a study documenting the correlation between levels of various inflammatory markers in the blood and long-term survival in breast cancer patients.
The specialized media bear witness too this British Cancer Journal, and according to the science news agency Syncthis conclusion is the result of the analysis of data from 1538 women belonging to the European EPIC (European Prospective investigation into Cancer and Nutrition) cohort and from eight different countries, who suffered from breast cancer for the entire duration of the study follow-up.
Cytokines, predictor of cancer mortality
First, the authors quantified the blood levels of a series of cytokines (a type of molecules linked to inflammation), from samples taken before cancer diagnosis.Subsequently, an average follow-up of seven years was carried out, in which survival and the risk of mortality from breast cancer or other causes were analyzed, based on the blood levels of these molecules.
Therefore, they found that the elevated levels of some cytokinesspecifically interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 10 (IL-10), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) are associated with poorer survival.The impact of the presence of these biomarkers was greater in postmenopausal women at the time of diagnosis.
According to the first author and researcher of IDIBELL and ICO,Carlota Castro,in the statements collected by the aforementioned agency,”an association was observed between the increase in the levels of these biomarkers and a increase in global mortality. Specifically, women with higher levels of IL-6, IL-10, and TNFα have a higher risk of overall mortality (from any cause) of between 20% and 40%.
The role of inflammation in breast cancer
“Moreover,” he adds, “elevated levels of IL-6 have also been linked to an increase breast cancer-specific mortality.
One of the most engaging features of this study is that it supports the hypothesis that chronic inflammation may play an important role in the progression of breast cancer. Though, the authors point out, to confirm this point it will be necessary to carry out more studies that analyse blood samples at different times, before and after receiving the cancer diagnosis.
on the other hand, we must keep in mind that breast cancer is a very diverse and varied diseasetherefore it is also essential to study how this class of biomarkers behaves depending on the subtype of neoplasm affecting each patient.
references
Castro-Espin, C., Cairat, M., Navionis, AS. et al. Prognostic role of prediagnostic circulating inflammatory biomarkers in breast cancer survival: evidence from the EPIC cohort study. British Cancer Journal (2024). DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41416-024-02858-6
SINC (2024). Inflammatory markers are linked to breast cancer prognosis. Consulted online at on November 25, 2024.
Do you want to recieve the best content to take care of yoru health and feel good? Sign up for our new newsletter for free.
We are already on WhatsApp! If you want to receive all the latest news and the most important news of the day on your mobile, Click here and join our channel. It is indeed a free, convenient and safe system.
What are inflammatory markers and how do they relate to breast cancer survival?
Interview: understanding the link Between Inflammatory Markers and Breast Cancer Survival
Time.news Editor: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Elena Mendez, a leading expert in cancer research from the Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute. Dr. Mendez, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Elena Mendez: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss our recent findings.
Editor: your study highlights a correlation between inflammatory markers in the blood and long-term survival in breast cancer patients. Could you start by explaining what prompted this research?
Dr. Mendez: Absolutely. Previous studies suggested that inflammation plays a role in cancer progression, but we wanted to explore this in a thorough manner, especially focusing on inflammatory markers known as cytokines. These molecules are critical in regulating immune responses and can influence tumor behavior.
Editor: Fascinating! How did you conduct your research, and what data did you analyze?
Dr. Mendez: We analyzed data from approximately 1,538 women diagnosed with breast cancer,gathered from the European EPIC cohort across eight countries. This large-scale approach allowed us to establish a robust link between the levels of certain cytokines in the blood and patient survival over time.
Editor: That’s notable! Can you tell us about the specific cytokines you measured and why they are notable?
Dr. Mendez: We quantified various cytokines,including interleukins and tumor necrosis factor alpha. These particular cytokines have been associated with inflammation and immune response in cancer. High levels of certain cytokines were correlated with poorer survival rates, making them potential predictors of cancer mortality.
Editor: So,the data you’ve gathered suggests that these cytokines could serve as markers in clinical settings?
Dr. Mendez: Exactly. If further validated, these findings could lead to the progress of blood tests that help identify breast cancer patients at higher risk of mortality. It could also inform treatment options and follow-up care.
Editor: ThatS a significant advancement. what do you think this means for the future of breast cancer research and treatment?
Dr. Mendez: This research underscores the importance of a multifaceted approach to cancer treatment, one that includes monitoring systemic inflammation. It could pave the way for personalized treatment regimens that consider not just the tumor’s characteristics but also the patient’s inflammatory profile.
Editor: It truly seems like this could have a huge impact on patient outcomes. Have there been any immediate responses from the medical community since the publication of your study?
Dr. Mendez: Yes, we’ve received interest from oncologists looking to integrate these findings into their practice. Many are eager to explore how these markers can be used alongside existing diagnostic tools.
Editor: That’s encouraging to hear! what advice would you give to patients and healthcare professionals based on your study’s findings?
Dr. Mendez: For patients, it’s essential to maintain open communication with their healthcare providers and consider lifestyle factors that may influence inflammation, such as diet and exercise. For healthcare professionals, incorporating a holistic view that includes inflammatory markers could enhance patient care and survival outcomes.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mendez. It’s been enlightening to hear about your work and its potential to change the landscape of breast cancer treatment. We look forward to seeing how this research develops in the future.
Dr. Mendez: Thank you for the chance! I’m excited for what lies ahead in our understanding of cancer.