Genetic Variants and Breast Cancer Characteristics
Author Information
Author(s): Huijts Petra EA, Vreeswijk Maaike PG, Kroeze-Jansema Karin HG, Jacobi Catharina E, Seynaeve Caroline, Krol-Warmerdam Elly MM, Wijers-Koster Pauline M, Blom Jannet C, Pooley Karen A, Klijn Jan GM, Tollenaar Rob AEM, Devilee Peter, van Asperen Christi J
Primary Institution: Leiden University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Are low-risk genetic variants associated with breast cancer characteristics in a Dutch cohort?
Conclusion
Certain genetic variants associated with a mildly increased risk of breast cancer are linked to specific disease characteristics and family history.
Supporting Evidence
- Heterozygote carriers of SNP rs889312 were less likely to have lymph node-positive breast cancer.
- Carriers of SNP rs3803662 were more likely to be diagnosed before age 60.
- The number of minor alleles of SNP rs2981582 correlated with family history of breast cancer.
Takeaway
Some genes can slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, and they might also affect how the disease shows up in patients.
Methodology
The study analyzed genotypes of seven SNPs in 1,267 breast cancer patients and correlated them with disease characteristics.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to the exclusion of patients over 70 years and those who declined participation.
Limitations
The cohort size is relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The cohort consisted of 1,267 patients, predominantly female, with an average age at diagnosis of 54 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.044
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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