Alpha-fetoprotein in Umbilical Cord and Its Relation to Pre-eclampsia and Breast Cancer Risk
Author Information
Author(s): L J Vatten, P R Romundstad, R A Ødegård, S T Nilsen, D Trichopoulos, A Austgulen
Primary Institution: Norwegian University of Science and Technology
Hypothesis
The anti-oestrogenic effect of pre-eclampsia could be mediated through high intrauterine levels of AFP, rather than low levels of oestradiol.
Conclusion
Higher levels of α-foetoprotein in umbilical cord plasma are associated with severe pre-eclampsia, suggesting a potential link to reduced breast cancer risk.
Supporting Evidence
- Women born after pre-eclamptic pregnancies have a reduced risk of breast cancer.
- High levels of α-foetoprotein have anti-oestrogenic properties.
- Severe pre-eclampsia is associated with higher levels of α-foetoprotein in umbilical cord plasma.
Takeaway
This study found that babies born from mothers with severe pre-eclampsia had higher levels of a protein that might help protect against breast cancer later in life.
Methodology
Umbilical cord blood was collected from 12,804 deliveries, comparing cases of severe pre-eclampsia with controls, measuring oestradiol and α-foetoprotein levels.
Limitations
The study may be confounded by differences in gestational age and the observational nature of the data.
Participant Demographics
The study included women who gave birth at Rogaland Central Hospital, with a focus on those with severe pre-eclampsia and matched controls.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website