The Breast Cancer and Environment Research Centers (BCERC): A Mulitdisciplinary Approach to Understand How Environmental Exposures During Critical Windows of Susceptibility Affect Breast Cancer Risk

Abstract

P-163 Introduction: The BCERC bring together a unique mix of epidemiologists, mammary gland biologists, toxicologists, clinicians, and breast cancer advocates to study how possible mammary carcinogens effect mammary gland development at the cellular- molecular level and population level at different stages of life. Exposure to breast carcinogens in utero, early in life, during puberty and during reproductive age may be contribute to overall breast cancer risk in adulthood. Methods: Little is known about the population demographics of the timing of puberty and associations with environmental and genetic factors. The BCERCs are conducting a study of girls ages 6–8, following them for five years as they enter puberty. This study seeks to define the timing of breast development, menarche and other aspects of sexual maturation in three multiethnic cohorts. Early breast development and age at menarche is hypothesized to lengthen the time period during which environmental exposures can affect critical target cells of the gland. Data are being collected on body burdens of endocrine disrupting and other chemicals, obesity, diet, physical activity, and psychosocial factors. Selected candidate genes will be also be assessed. The BCERC has companion animal experiments underway using rodent models to inform the human studies by studying the structure and function of the mammary gland after exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals, radiation, dietary fat, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Results: To date over 2500 girls have been contacted for study participation and more than 600 have been enrolled in the three Centers. Clinical examinations and interviews are being conducted at each study visit. A pilot study of body burden of chemicals of interest is also underway. Preliminary results on enrollment, baseline stage of pubertal development, anthropometry, and selected environmental exposures will be presented. In order to highlight the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the risks of breast cancer due to the environment, an example which describes how the results of animal experiments on endocrine disrupting chemicals are informing the epidemiologic research will be presented. Discussion and Significance: In order to facilitate dialog and enhance dissemination of study results, advocates are critically involved at each Center by assisting in the recruitment and retention of the study subjects and bringing issues of community concern to the research team. The poster will also present examples of how advocacy participation in these Centers is enhancing research on breast cancer and the environment.