Genetic Factors, Alcohol, and Breast Cancer Risk
Author Information
Author(s): Zheng T, Holford T R, Zahm S H, Owens P H, Boyle P, Zhang Y, Zhang B, Wise J P Sr, Stephenson L P, Ali-Osman F
Primary Institution: Yale University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
Do GSTM1 and GSTT1 genetic polymorphisms modify the relationship between alcohol consumption and breast cancer risk?
Conclusion
The study found that certain genetic polymorphisms increase breast cancer risk among women who consume alcohol, particularly in postmenopausal women.
Supporting Evidence
- Postmenopausal women with GSTM1A genotype had a three-fold increased risk of breast cancer when drinking alcohol.
- Women with GSTT1-null genotype showed a significant increase in breast cancer risk with higher alcohol consumption.
- An eight-fold increased risk was observed for those with GSTM1A and GSTT1-null genotypes consuming over 250 kg of alcohol.
Takeaway
Women who drink alcohol and have certain genes may have a higher chance of getting breast cancer, especially if they are older.
Methodology
The study used a case-control design with blood samples and interviews to assess alcohol consumption and genetic polymorphisms.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias in control selection and reliance on self-reported alcohol consumption.
Limitations
The sample size is relatively small, which may affect the reliability of the results.
Participant Demographics
Female breast cancer patients aged 30-80 years and matched controls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.0–2.2
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website